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The College team has been busy finalising their bid to the Department for Education for a new University Technical College (UTC) based in Newton Abbot, specialising in Engineering, Water and the Environment. The school will open in September 2015, when the proposed new-build school will open. It will recruit up to 600 14-18 year old students per annum. If the bid is successful, we will be notified at Easter 2013. A large and dynamic partnership has been formed, including MP for Newton Abbot Anne Marie Morris, the University of Exeter, South West Water, Centrax, Galliford Try, the Environment Agency, Sibelco, Paignton Zoo, CIWEM, Teignbridge and South Hams District Councils, Torbay Council and Devon County Council.
Many of the employers have come on board because of the College’s excellent track record working with them across engineering, science and civil engineering/construction.
During October 2012, three consultation events for employers, parents and
prospective pupils were held across the catchment area at Exeter University, Coombeshead Secondary School in Newton Abbot and at the College's University Centre in Paignton. These were attended by approximately 90 people.
A short questionnaire was used at the UTC consultation evenings which elicited 77 responses. The survey invited respondents to state whether they supported the UTC and the proposed specialisms and to record any other comments.
The 77 respondents comprised employers (20%), parents (18%), community (21%), education (6%) and students/apprentices (35%).
Of these, 82% believe South Devon should have a UTC.
87% agree /strongly agree with the proposed specialisms of engineering and science.
For more information email Project Champion Adele Dawson.