Baker Dearing was thrilled to facilitate a visit by Lord Glendonbrook CBE, founder of the Michael Bishop Foundation that bears his name, and foundation trustee Martin Ritchie to London Design and Engineering UTC on Tuesday 16 September.

The visitors, accompanied by Baker Dearing Life President Lord Baker, had the opportunity to tour this amazing UTC and its top-of-the-range facilities. They also met with students working through T Level qualifications.

Year 13 learners studying for a T Level in design and development for engineering and manufacturing shared with the visitors how they have reached the national finals of WorldSkills UK in the automation category. They explained the hours of circuitry practice they have been doing in preparation, and how excited they are to compete in November, especially as the youngest team and up against competitors such as BMW. They will travel to Wales with the UTC’s head of mechatronics, Famida Noor Mahomed, to represent LDE.

One learner summed up the experience powerfully, saying he wished he had joined LDE UTC from year 9 as it would have made “all the difference” and that he is so glad to be here now.

The Michael Bishop Foundation has been a tremendous supporter of Baker Dearing and its work to advance and inform high-quality, employer-led technical education. Over £35 million has been donated to more than 100 charities by the Michael Bishop Foundation since 1987, to the benefit of communities and individuals.

Thank you to Lord Glendonbrook and Martin Ritchie for visiting and for their support. Thank you to LDE’s staff and students for hosting.