The Baker Dearing Educational Trust, which represents England’s University Technical College (UTC) secondary schools, is delighted to share the news that a 45th UTC has been created in Darwen, Lancashire.

Darwen Aldridge Enterprise Studio has, with the Department for Education’s approval, become Aldridge UTC Darwen, under the Aldridge Education MAT which already includes UTC Warrington and UTC @ MediaCity.

Chief Executive of the Baker Dearing Educational Trust Kate Ambrosi commented: “We are immensely excited to be welcoming Aldridge UTC Darwen to the University Technical College programme.

“This will bring the successful and experienced UTC model of education to Darwen, wherein young people study technical subjects linked to the needs of local business and have regular opportunities to engage with employers and experience the workplace.

“Each year, around a fifth of Year 13 UTC leavers progress to apprenticeships, compared to six per cent nationally. Half of the apprenticeships achieved by UTC leavers are higher or degree apprenticeships. Our young people are also less likely to become NEET straight after leaving than their mainstream school peers.

“A key difference between the UTC programme and other technical schools is the unique, wraparound support of Baker Dearing. We have over 20 years’ experience of delivering high-quality, employer-led technical education in schools.

“We will connect Darwen with other UTCs and national employers, opening up more opportunities for young people to engage with industry and for Darwen to share best practices with other technical teachers and leaders.

“The Prime Minister’s vision of high-quality technical education, delivered in cooperation with local employers, is precisely what Aldridge UTC Darwen will offer.”