Lord Baker introduced the seminar which was
organised to confirm the vision for University Technical Colleges,
to hear from groups across the country who are making progress and
to identify further support that is needed to develop these
ground-breaking Colleges.
Professor Alison Halstead, Pro-Vice Chancellor
of Aston University set out the plans of the Aston University
Engineering Academy (the first University Technical College). It is
currently in the feasibility stage and expected to open in
newly-built premises in September 2012 with 600 pupils. Alison
outlined the challenges being encountered such as admissions at
14+, working within the academies delivery structure, and the
recruitment of the right principal. She was clear, however, that
all difficulties are outweighed by the reward - seamless
engineering curriculum progression for the nation.
Paul Pritchard, Chair of Governors and Jim
Wade, Principal brought us up to date with The JCB Academy in
Staffordshire, due to open in September 2010. This unique regional
learning centre for 540 pupils will specialise in training the
young engineers and business leaders of the future. The main
sponsor is JCB the Rocester-based global manufacturer of
construction, agricultural and industrial equipment. It was also
fascinating to hear of the blue-chip partners such as Rolls-Royce
aero engines at Derby, the Toyota car plant in Derbyshire and train
makers Bombardier which will also be involved in training young
engineers at this college.
Amarjit Basi, Principal and Chief Executive of
Walsall College shared the details of the Statement of Intent for
the Black Country University Technical College. The vision
focusses on 'new engineering' and a commitment to deliver young
people that are skilled, professional and enterprising. The
University Technical College will explicitly support local and
regional regeneration priorities, building up and reinvigorating
the Black Country's engineering foundations.
Professor William Richardson, University of
Exeter gave a stimulating presentation of his research into 'The
international and historical perspective of Technical Schools and
how this should affect our thinking about University Technical
Colleges'.
Professor Chris Snowden, President of the IET,
Vice President of the Royal Academy of Engineering and Vice
Chancellor of the University of Surrey welcomed the participants of
the seminar to the IET.
Peter Mitchell, Education Director, Edge works
with Lord Baker to develop the University Technical Colleges
initiative on a day-to-day basis. He summed up the proceedings of
the day, the questions and discussion which had arisen and all the
indications for the growth and strengthening of the movement.