8 May 2012
Capita Symonds has been appointed by the DfE (Department for
Education) to project manage a new University Technical College
(UTC) at Burnley in Lancashire which is being backed by major
employers from across the aerospace, nuclear, technology, and green
energy industries.
The £9.3m project – the Visions Learning Trust
University Technical College - is being developed at the Weavers’
Triangle site which features a 150 year old victorian mill that
will be the location for the UTC.
The
UTC will provide education for 800 young people aged 14-19,
combining traditional education with employer-led technical
training. Young people will specialise in engineering and
construction from basic skills to degree level, offering them a
seamless transition into the world of work or further
education.
The project, which is being developed by the lead
sponsor Training 2000 (one of the North West’s largest independent
work based learning provider of training courses), Burnley Borough
Council and Barnfield Investment Properties, already has the
backing of a range of leading local and national employers,
Liverpool John Moores University, and the University of Central Lancashire (UCLan).
The aim of the project is to offer a world
class education to young people, and ensure employment
opportunities exist aligned to progression through the UTC.
Progression pathways will be seamless and will cater for all levels
of learning up to and beyond foundation degree.
The strong links with Training 2000 will
provide pathways to apprenticeships and A-level subjects which are
linked to further progression through academic routes. The sponsor
universities will provide development of higher skills with the UTC
acting as the vehicle with which to provide an innovative and
inspirational educational pathway into employment.
All learners will have a mentor - either college based or
workplace based - and these will provide additional support where a
particular need has been identified. This will ensure an inclusive
approach for learners across the whole ability spectrum.
The Weavers’ Triangle site is located in the
heart Burnley and will benefit from good transportation links and
next generation ICT provision. The building will be an open, light
and airy environment with plans currently being developed to
provide an inspirational educational environment. The learning
spaces will be equipped with innovative features including industry
leading ICT and leading edge interactive blended learning resource
systems. Advanced technology workspaces and creative open areas
will also provide visual stimulus.
An application for formal funding of the
project will go to the government this month.