On Wednesday 30 January, UTC Swindon Principal, Jon Oliver and students, Ben Perrigo and Ben Rickards (Ben Ayers also received an award, but could not attend), visited St James’ Palace in London to commend their achievements as part of the Duke of York Awards for Technical Education.
Joining more than 140 other students from University Technical Colleges (UTCs) across the country, the students were presented with their award by HRH The Duke of York at the prestigious ceremony.
Founded in 2012, The Duke of York Awards recognise the success of students who have pursued highly technical subjects including engineering, health sciences, advanced manufacturing and computer science. It reflects the unique specialist education young people receive at UTCs, institutions that offer academic, technical and practical education.
As well as those receiving Gold awards at St James’s Palace, more than 230 UTC students qualified for Silver and Bronze awards.
Nomination for The Duke of York Award for Technical Education is based on successfully completing a process of work experience placements, academic achievement and development of workplace skills together with a rigorous assessment interview.
His Royal Highness The Duke of York said:
“By seeking out University Technical Colleges, you have set yourself apart from others in the education system. Those who make a success of it – as you all have – have a level of self-determination and motivation that means you will move quickly through the ranks in the workplace.”
Charles Parker, CEO, Baker Dearing Educational Trust, the charity that promotes and sustains UTCs said:
“The Duke of York Award for Technical Education provides a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the achievements of UTC students and the importance of their technical education. These young people have had a flying start because they went to a UTC. They are already making a huge contribution to society because of the relevance of their education to the modern economy and their experience of dealing with adults through the employer led projects, which are a key part of a UTC education.”
