Bucks UTC joins ‘Think UTC’ Day
Last Friday (18 March) Bucks UTC took part in a new national day for University Technical Colleges – ‘Think UTC’ day – to celebrate the work the UTC does to inspire young people in science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM) subjects.
Local MP David Lidington supported the event which began with the launch of the ‘Build a Dwelling (BAD) Challenge’ – in July this year the students will be building a fully functional bungalow within 48 hours, under the expert guidance of the UTCs employer partners.Other activities on the day included a race against time to build a working computer encompassing IT, Construction, Science and English, plus an IT support desk run by students to help anyone having problems with their technology.UTC partners, Taylor Wimpey, Cisco, and Esri UK supported the event giving lectures on subjects such as sustainable construction, networking for the future and geographical information systems.
David Lidington MP for Aylesbury said: “It was fantastic to see such a range of activities within the UTC being supported by some leading employers, with an impressive showcase from the students themselves demonstrating the all-important work they’re doing in STEM subjects.”
Over 30 UTCs around the country participated in ‘Think UTC’ on Friday 18 March, which coincided with British Science Week and National Apprenticeship Week.
Lord Baker, Chairman of the Baker Dearing Educational Trust, the organisation that supports University Technical Colleges, added:
“I am delighted to see so many UTCs involved in this national day. The University Technical College programme aims to put technical skills back at the heart of our educational system and highlight the importance and versatility of science, technology, engineering and maths in industry. Think UTC is a brilliant way of raising awareness amongst young people about the advantages of studying STEM subjects at school, and the range of high profile technical careers that skills in these subjects can lead to.”
If you know anyone interested in Bucks UTC’s education offer, please contact 01296 388688 or email info@buckinghamshireutc.co.uk.