Southampton Uni backs plans for city’s new University Technical College

A new University Technical College is set to open in Southampton, with backing from the University of Southampton.

The new college is aiming to bolster the range of educational options available to young people, creating 600 spaces for 14 to 19-year-olds across A-Levels and T-Levels.

It joins a number of other colleges in the area which already work in partnership with the University.

Professor Anna Barney, Associate Vice-President (Education) at the University of Southampton, said: “We are delighted to support adding another unique educational offer in Southampton that will increase opportunities for pupils and help economic growth in our region.

“We firmly believe that close cooperation between schools and colleges, local employers and our university is the best way to ensure positive educational outcomes for local pupils.

“We are closely involved with plans for sixth form development across the city and look forward to exploring how this new initiative may be integrated to enhance current educational provision.”

UTC Southampton will allow more young people in Southampton to engage with a specialist STEM environment and increase the number of individuals trained for high-end technical jobs in the region through an academic curriculum described as “broad and ambitious”.

Professor Jane Falkingham, Vice-President for Engagement and International at the University of Southampton, said: “Underpinning our support is a commitment to be active members in developing and supporting the new school, contributing to the resources and leadership required to support both the operation and enhancement of education provision in the UTC.”

Through the UTC, the university hopes it will positively affect the employability and life chances of nearby pupils and to support the skills needs of local and national employers.

• southampton.ac.uk