Prime Highlights:
- The second annual ThinkUTC week, from 17–21 November 2025, celebrates the achievements of University Technical Colleges (UTCs) and their partnerships with industry.
- A national UTC alumni board is launched, made up of nine former students from across the UK, to connect graduates and support current UTC learners.
Key Facts:
- Think UTC week includes events and announcements showcasing innovation in technical education.
- UTCs combine academic and technical study with direct industry engagement, offering clear pathways into apprenticeships, higher education, or employment.
Background:
The Baker Dearing Educational Trust will hold the second #thinkUTC week from 17 to 21 November 2025 to celebrate the achievements of University Technical Colleges (UTCs) and their industry partnerships. The week will include events and announcements about technical education.
A main highlight is the new national UTC alumni board, made up of nine former students from across the UK from different industries. The board aims to unite UTC graduates and provide insights to enhance the experience of current and future learners. Lucie Gresham-Hill, chair of the board, described the launch as “a real privilege” and emphasised its role in showcasing the transformative impact of UTC education.
In another key development, the Trust announced a partnership with civil engineering company Morgan Sindall Infrastructure, strengthening the company’s long-standing collaboration with UTCs. Simon Smith, Managing Director of Morgan Sindall Infrastructure, said the partnership would support the pipeline of future employees while benefiting the communities in which the company operates.
The Trust is also working with the Education and Training Foundation (ETF) on the “Bridging the Gap” initiative, aimed at enhancing technical education delivery and fostering collaboration between educators and industry.
Students, staff, and employer partners are encouraged to take part in #thinkUTC week by sharing videos, photos, and case studies that highlight what makes their UTC unique, from employer partnerships and teaching approaches to facilities and industry connections.
Kate Ambrosi, Chief Executive of Baker Dearing, said the week “celebrates high-quality technical education rooted in employer partnership.” She also noted the strong performance of UTCs, with a third rated ‘outstanding’ or having outstanding features by Ofsted, and 86 per cent rated ‘good’ or better.
#thinkUTC week aims to reinforce UTCs as a leading model of employer-led technical education, equipping young people with the skills and experience needed for success in modern careers.
