Sheffield UTC!

I attended the Steering Group for the Sheffield UTC this morning.

This new and exciting concept in education connects with the work I am doing with the Cutlers Company because University Technical Colleges offer 14-19 year olds the opportunity to take a highly regarded, full time, technically-oriented course of study. The UTCs are equipped to the highest standard, sponsored by a university and offer clear progression routes into higher education or further learning in work. The vision is that students learn in a very practical way, integrating national curriculum requirements with technical and vocational elements. The college ethos and curriculum is heavily influenced by local and national employers who also provide support and work experience for students.

Across the country University Technical Colleges specialise in subjects that require technical and modern equipment, for example, engineering, product design, health sciences, construction, and land and environmental services. They all teach business skills and the use of ICT while their chosen specialism reflects the university's areas of excellence and the needs of local employers.

Sheffield has been a global leader in advanced manufacturing for nearly three hundred years and has the fastest growing creative and digital sector in the UK. The Sheffield UTC aims to develop the next generation of innovators, creative thinkers and industry leaders and we hope that the initiative will run in parallel and connect with the Cutlers 'Made in Sheffield' Curriculum project.

The UTC sponsors are Sheffield College, Sheffield Hallam University and the University of Sheffield who are working with the following local partners; Boeing Advance Manufacturing Research Centre, Tata, Kraft/Cadbury Foods, South Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Services, The Workshop, Sheffield International Venues, Learning Light, HSBC, Newburgh Engineering Co Limited and Firth Rixson UK/Europe.
Chris