University Technical Colleges (UTCs) offer 14-19 year olds the opportunity to take a highly regarded, full time, technically-oriented course of study designed for relevance to local employment needs. Sponsored by a university and supported by local and national employers, UTCs offer a clear progression route for students into higher education or further learning in work. The movement aspires to open 300 UTCs.
The Duke is Patron of the Baker Dearing Educational Trust, which promotes the establishment of UTCs. HRH supports the wider UTC movement by introducing new business partners to the movement, helping it to achieve its ambitious plans to open new colleges across the UK.
The Duke has also given his name to The Duke of York Award for Technical Education, an award to recognise achievement across academic work, work experience and other core competencies. The first Awards were presented by HRH on 9th December 2013 at Buckingham Palace to students from Black Country UTC and JCB Academy, Rocester (Staffordshire).
