Green light for Humber UTC to open doors

Following the ‘Readiness to Open’ meeting between Humber UTC members and the Department of Education and Education Funding Agency, the UTC was pronounced fit and ready to open.

This readiness to open process is rigorous and determines whether all structures, policies and procedures are in place to open a safe and effective educational establishment.

The two government agencies also review student demand to ensure the UTC is an economically viable venture for opening in September 2015.

The process is graded by a traffic light system of red, amber and green.

David Shepherd, Chair of the Humber UTC Board, said: “All the hard work with education and employer partners has been worthwhile with a fantastic outcome of green overall, demonstrating that Humber UTC is ready to open. It is an endorsement of our ability to provide a top class education to those that will study here.”

Andrew Downing, Principal Designate, said: “It is fantastic news for the future students of the Humber University Technical College that the Department for Education has recognised the hard work, dedication and attention to detail of the board members and partners. I am delighted with this endorsement of the plan and the collaboration between all parties. I now cannot wait to welcome the students to the college in September.”

Coun Liz Redfern, leader, North Lincolnshire Council, said: “The Humber UTC will be a fantastic hands-on learning centre for young people wanting a career in engineering and renewables. There are lots of exciting opportunities coming up with major employers in North Lincolnshire and the wider Humber region, where employers will be crying out for skilled people in these areas.

“Real opportunities will be provided for the students, including BAE Systems taking on 15 students each year. And all students completing the course are guaranteed a job interview with a regional business or a conditional offer at the University of Hull.

“To have the UTC right on our doorstep here in Scunthorpe means that local people will have a fantastic opportunity to learn a specialist skill – which they can then use to help forge a great career for them.”

The board members and partners of the Humber UTC present at the meeting included Andrew Downing, Principal Designate; David Shepherd of Able UK (chair of the board); Brendan Conlan of Online Design; Martin Oliver, Executive Principal of Outwood Grange Academies Trust; Anne Tyrell, Principal of North Lindsey College and Sonia Allen, Humber UTC Project Manager.