University Technical Colleges are a new concept in education. They offer 13-19 year olds the opportunity to take a highly regarded, technically-oriented course of study alongside academic qualifications. They are equipped to the highest standard, sponsored by a university and offer clear progression routes into higher education or further learning in work. Find out more at www.utcolleges.org

No, the UTC is part of government-funded education.

It allows a student to study a subject they are really enthused by in top quality facilities that reflect the real workplace with teachers who have practical industry experience. Students also benefit from regular input and mentoring from local employers and universities.

The curriculum is shaped by employers as well as local universities so everything that students learn is connected to the world of work.

The Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre (AMRC-TC) between Sheffield and Rotherham offers advanced apprenticeships in engineering, which involve a mix of employment and training, as well as higher education opportunities. The UTC is full-time education and provides post-16 students the opportunity to gain A levels as well as a technical qualification: it does not offer apprenticeships. The AMRC and UTC will be working in partnership, and we envisage that a number of UTC students will go on to the AMRC-TC when they leave. UTC students may also use the advanced facilities of the AMRC as part of their course.

The UTC is well-equipped with advanced technology in both its specialist areas. It caters for those who have an interest in creative approaches to the use of computers – both software and hardware – as well as those who want to use technology in their projects.

Students must wear UTC business dress. Full details are on the Business Attire page of our website.

No, UTC Sheffield is offering highly-regarded technical qualifications alongside GCSEs and A Levels. Students leaving the UTC at 16 or 18 will be well placed to take up Apprenticeships or Higher Apprenticeships.

The UTC offers A levels as well as other qualifications which provide sufficient UCAS points for students wishing to move on to University.

With its specialist learning and the leading involvement of top employers in the UTC at every level, we are confident that students will leave the UTC able to compete with anyone for jobs and for entry to higher education.

No, the UTC does not admit students on the basis of selection, although there are minimum requirements for Post 16 entry. In the event that there are more applications than places, there will be an independently verified process of random allocation in order to ensure fairness. The only priority criteria are certain cases of special need.

There are lots of employers working in these sectors in the Sheffield City Region and they are searching for skilled young people to fill jobs. Many of these employers are world-famous and employ people nationally and internationally so the job opportunities are not just local.