University Technical Colleges

General information

UTCs are secondary schools for 14-19 year olds in the UK. They deliver an innovative, high-quality education that combines technical, practical and academic learning. In doing so, they offer students more than the traditional GCSE and A Level curriculum.

A UTC curriculum includes one or two technical specialisms, which are linked to the skills gaps in the region. Students study GCSEs, A Levels and technical qualifications matched to these specialisms, as well as core subjects, including English, maths and science.

UTCs have a special focus on science, technology, engineering and maths subjects, and all learning is designed to be applied in the workplace. Each UTC is backed by employers and a local university who work with staff to develop the curriculum that gives students first-hand experience of what life is like after school.

UTCs support all routes to employment, whether they be through apprenticeship, university or straight into work after leaving.

UTCs are a growing network. At the start of 2014 there were 17 UTCs open in England. By 2018, there will be over 55 UTCs across the country.