The Duke of York Award for Technical Education (Gold) recognises excellence in technical education and the success of young people choosing technical education and excelling at University Technical Colleges (UTCs).
125 of those who have achieved the Award over the last year received their certificate from The Duke of York at St James’s Palace. Each recipient has completed qualifications, work experience placements and developed wider-competencies required in the workplace such as communication skills and problem-solving.
His Royal Highness also gave a speech congratulating the students on their achievements and their decision to study at a UTC: “You are the chosen few who have not only decided to make the brave decision to go the UTC, but you have gained most from doing so. Now go and make a difference in the workplace. None of what you have learnt, none of what you have experienced is any less than anybody else. In fact, it’s a whole lot more.”
“Lord Baker was incredibly enlightened to come up with the UTC system. The more I visit, the more sense the UTC programme makes. UTCs give you experience and knowledge and this combination delivers adaptable people to the workplace. The foundation you achieve from UTCs gives you a huge advantage on the experience and knowledge ladder. Congratulations on your Gold Awards. I wish you every success in your futures. I am certain you will now go and make a difference in the workplace.”
The Duke of York is Patron of the Baker Dearing Educational Trust, which supports and promotes UTCs – schools for 14-19 year olds that deliver technical education as well as core curriculum subjects. Preparing students for the jobs of tomorrow and driven by local industry needs, UTCs work with over 400 employers and universities to provide direct pathways into technical careers across the most exciting industries.
Lord Baker, who co-founded the Baker Dearing Educational Trust, also attended the Award Ceremony and said “We are so grateful to The Duke of York for taking an interested in Technical Education. He shows commitment, knowledge and enthusiasm for UTCs.”
Amongst last year’s Gold Award winners, 40% started an apprenticeship with more than two-thirds at Higher or Degree Level. Baker Dearing expects the same this year. Combined together, last year about three-quarters (74%) of all Gold Award winners started either a higher form of education (degree at university), or started a higher form of apprenticeship (Level 4+).
Find out more about the Award here.
