New Principal appointed for region’s first University Technical College

The Humber UTC will specialise in engineering and renewables, alongside other key curriculum subjects. It will have a business-led approach with top local and regional business leaders playing a major part by providing a hands-on approach to learning. These include the Royal air Force, Able UK, BAE Systems, Tata, and Clugstons.

Other Humber UTC partners include Outwood Grange Academies Trust, University of Hull, North Lindsey College and North Lincolnshire Council.

A ‘Meet the Principal’ event was held last night (Monday 18 May) at the Civic Centre in Scunthorpe, where students and their parents met Andrew for the first time.

Andrew, currently a Principal with Outwood Grange Academies Trust, said: “At the Trust, we are very pleased to be working alongside educational partners North Lindsey College and the University of Hull to deliver this exciting new project which will deliver the high quality learning experience our young people rightly deserve, enabling them to achieve the highest possible outcomes.

“I am personally delighted to be the Principal of this exciting venture and feel privileged to have been chosen to lead the region’s very first University Technical College here in Scunthorpe. Our drive and enthusiasm is matched by that of the employers linked to the Humber UTC. I am excited to work with these committed colleagues in delivering this learning experience for students, providing a strong academic background and hands-on experience with aspirational business leaders.

“It was great to meet the students and their parents and introduce myself last night. I am really looking forward to working with everyone to help students achieve the very best, which in turn will stand them in good stead for their future careers.”

Coun Liz Redfern, leader, North Lincolnshire Council, said: “The Humber UTC is an exciting project that will give lots of young people a fantastic opportunity to learn in a specialised industry that is currently thriving – particularly in North Lincolnshire with recent multi-million pound developments well underway.

“I am pleased to welcome Andrew Downing – he has an excellent track record and I’m sure he will do a fantastic job and help ensure the students get the very best out of their learning.”

The building is currently being constructed and work is progressing well.

It’s still not too late to apply for a place. If you are interested, please visit: www.humberutc.co.uk.

Those who complete the course will be guaranteed an interview with a major employer or a conditional offer of a place at Hull University or North Lindsey College.