What do our students say?

Our students’ experience whilst at their UTC matters most to us. Every year, Baker Dearing conducts a student survey of Year 13 leavers across the UTC programme to assess this experience and to learn how we can make it even better. This year, the survey took place under very different circumstances in the context of home learning and exam cancellations. However, the responses we received from Year 13 students, during a difficult and uncertain period for all of them, are heart-warming, and serve as a timely reminder as to the value of a UTC education. These are some of the highlights… 

• 89% of students agree that ‘my UTC has state-of-the-art facilities and industry-standard equipment’
• 80% of students say that ‘my UTC provides excellent technical education’
• 80% also agree that ‘my UTC provides excellent employer engagement and work experience opportunities’
• 77% of students believe that their UTC education has prepared them for the next stage of their career
• And 76% believe that they can study valuable courses that aren’t available elsewhere
• 76% also tell us that they know more about employment or university choices than they would have at other schools in their area
• 86% of UTC students agree with the statement, ‘my UTC was a supportive and safe environment’
• 84% of UTC students agree with the statement, ‘my teachers cared about my welfare and personal development’

• 61% of current Year 13s report that their parents are concerned for their career prospects as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic. 59% say that they would spend another year at their UTC if it gave them the right qualifications to progress in their career…

We also asked Year 13 students what advice they would give to other young people thinking of going to a UTC. Here’s what they said…

“It has been a brilliant experience and anyone who goes there will experience the same.”

“To be honest my UTC is the best place to study if you are looking for future career and good education.”

“Go for it! It’s the best thing I have ever done and I have had a fantastic time at the UTC. It is brilliant!”

“Best decision you will ever make to develop skills and confidence as well as knowledge about the job sector and industries within the area.”

“If you’re passionate about a career in engineering it can be both career defining and life-changing. If you work hard you can get some truly phenomenal skills and moments from your time at a UTC!”

“UTC is amazing, be confident and ready to work with employers and in professional environments!”

“I would definitely recommend going to a UTC as it allows you to gain good contacts with local and national companies. I also had a fantastic work experience placement with a company through a contact tailored to my interests.”