They are calling for UTCs to be exempted from the Schools Bill’s requirement that all schools must teach the national curriculum.
Support from Education Leaders for Flexibility
Lord Blunkett, who has two grandchildren studying at UTC Sheffield City Centre with another set to join in September, expressed his hope that the national curriculum requirement will not "interfere with the innovation and creativity" that University Technical Colleges have introduced. He strongly believes that the flexibility UTCs offer is crucial for their continued success.
Lord Baker Urges the Government to Reconsider
Baker Dearing’s Life President, Lord Baker, echoed Lord Blunkett’s concerns and asked the government to “think again” about the national curriculum requirement. He highlighted the visits of Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson MP and Skills Minister Baroness Jacqui Smith to UTC South Durham and Aston University Engineering Academy earlier this year. These visits showcased the high-quality, employer-led provision that University Technical Colleges offer.
The Importance of Skills-Based Education
Lord Aberdare, a former member of the Education for 11-16 Year Olds Select Committee, emphasized that "skills-based subjects require greater flexibility." He praised University Technical Colleges for their ability to provide a more work-focused balance between academic skills and marketable job-related skills, which he believes is essential for the workforce of the future.
UTCs' Success Rate and Growth
Lord Daniel Hannan noted that University Technical Colleges have an "extraordinary success rate by any definition," with over 86% being rated ‘good’ or ‘outstanding’ by Ofsted. He also mentioned the success of the new UTCs in Southampton and Doncaster, which were established in response to local demand.
