An aerial view of where the University Technical College could be created, marked Rodney Building

by Dan Bloom

Medway is to get a University Technical College for 14 to 19-year-olds after a hard-fought campaign.

The first attempt to get the new-style vocational college failed last summer.

But the proposals were resubmitted last autumn by Medway Council, employers and the lead sponsor the University of Greenwich.

And the government has given approval for the bid today.

The Department for Education has approved 13 on top of the 32 already given the green light, including a technical college at Bluewater. Only five of these have opened so far.

"it's a fantastic result for the young people of medway..." – cllr les wicks

The UTC will focus on vocational training in engineering and construction. Students will also be taught core GCSEs.

It will have places for up to 600 students.

The location has yet to be decided, but one of the options under consideration is an unused block at Brompton Barracks.

The idea won the support of more than 20 organisations, including the Royal School of Military Engineering and major employers such as BAE Systems, Delphi Diesel Systems, BAM Construction UK and Land Securities, who who would offer training and work experience.

MidKent College, which also offers vocational courses, backed the plans saying they would benefit Medway’s economy.

There will be no homework from the school as all work will be done during school hours, probably 8.30am-5pm, and the uniform will be smart business wear.

It will offer practical courses including GCSEs, A levels, BTECs and NVQs.

Pupils in engineering and construction will be tought at Medway's University Technical College. Picture: Simon Kelsey

The chairman of the UTC board was Prof Alan Reed, director of regional development at the Medway Campus of the University of Greenwich.

MidKent College deputy principal Sue McLeod said: "This is absolutely fantastic news for the people of Medway and we are delighted all the hard work that went into preparing the bid has paid off.

"We look forward to working with our partners to develop a University Technical College that will enable a degree of specialisation prior to age 16 that is currently unavailable and which will re-engage and enthuse students."

Cllr Les Wicks (Con), cabinet member for education on Medway Council, said: "This is great news. I'm overjoyed that we've been successful in this bid. It's a fantastic result for the young people of Medway."