THIS Warrington college has announced the start of an ‘exciting journey’ as it joins an Academy Trust.

University Technical College Warrington (UTCW) has been approved to join Aldridge Education Multi Academy Trust.

Based on Dallam Lane, the technical college which specialises in STEM education, is hoping the move will only strengthen its offering.

Students with a passion for engineering, the built environment, digital or science can join the UTC in either year 10 or year 12 to study high-status technical qualifications alongside their core GCSEs or opt to undertake one of the exciting T Level pathways on offer.

Aldridge Education was established in 2016 by Sir Rod Aldridge (who founded the Capita Group), and currently looks after eight academies – in the north west, London, and south east – as well as an adult learning provision.   

Aldridge promises to bring a level of understanding and expertise to UTCW. 

CEO of Aldridge Education, Jane Fletcher, said: “What has been clear throughout this process is that both UTCW and Aldridge share a genuine passion for bringing learning to life; for creating fantastic, meaningful experiences and opportunities for students that pave the way into the world of work.

“We are also both committed to ensuring that not a single student misses out on those experiences and opportunities; that no one is left behind.”

As a Trust, Aldridge has always valued the deep connections between education and employment and expresses the want for students to thrive not just in school, but well beyond as they build happy and successful futures.

Principal at UTC Warrington, Chris Hatherall, commented on the new partnership, saying: "I'm absolutely delighted to lead UTC Warrington into such an exciting opportunity of joining Aldridge Education Multi Academy Trust.

“Over the last few years, UTCW has enjoyed growth in pupil numbers and significant investment in our resources and facilities for our students, most recently for our T Level programmes.

“Joining Aldridge Education can only further strengthen the opportunities and experiences available to the young people we educate."

Chair of Trustees for UTCW, Mike Houghton, added: “As one of the founding trustees, it is an exciting time to see the transfer of UTC Warrington into the Aldridge Academy Trust.

“We have been on a journey for over ten years formulating the business plan, overseeing the construction, opening and creating a vibrant college that delivers an outstanding STEM education to 14-19 year students in the Warrington area.

“I believe we have found an ideal Trust to support our future ambitions.

“Our original vision of a pipeline of work ready students joining local businesses is now a reality. I’m looking forward to working with Aldridge to support our broader aspirations for students at UTC Warrington.”

The Aldridge team has already spent some time with the UTCW, supporting staff with areas such as teaching and learning development.

 There is also the ambition to introduce admissions to Year 9 pupils too, with the aim of applications opening in September 2024 - enabling pupils to benefit from specialised teaching and learning earlier (while still accessing a wide and varied curriculum).

The next steps are to finalise the details and timeline with the Department of Education for the UTC to officially join Aldridge Education. In the meantime, both bodies will continue to work together to ensure students receive the best possible learning experience.