Helyn Clack meets Lord Baker to discuss his vision of University Technical Colleges

Lord Baker of Dorking invites Helyn to meet up at the House of Lords to discuss his vision of University Technical Colleges after he opened the new Walsall College, which Helyn had visited earlier in the Autumn meeting with the Principal and the Chairman of Governors.

Lord Baker’s plans for UTC’s (University Technical Colleges) are that they would cater for 14-19 year olds of around 600-1,000 students offering skills training and vocational education under one specialist roof. There would be two in-takes at 14 – young apprentices and students. All will start with hands-on experience in their chosen technical subject. All 14-16 year olds will study GCSE English, Maths, Science and IT alongside one of the technical diplomas which is equivalent to three GCSEs. There will also be training in how to set-up a business, and in financial practices. There will be day release for one day a fortnight at 14, either through work placement or apprenticeship. Funded under the Academy Programme, each college is sponsored by either a university or an FE college – they may jointly sponsor. Post-16 students may take the Advanced Diploma or one of the qualifications from BTEC, City & Guilds, and Edexcel. Students will be encouraged by the sponsoring university to go on to foundation degrees and full degrees. Universities will provide access to their specialist facilities and teaching to the students. The selection at 14 will be by the students and their families themselves. Young apprentices may be selected for their aptitude and commitment. UTCs will offer a range of career choices. Each of the 138 local authorities accros England and Wales should have at least one UTC.

Photo: Helyn Clack PPC for Walsall North meeting with Lord Baker of Dorking to discuss UTC’s