7

Charlie is now working for Amazon on a prestigious maintenance and mechatronics apprenticeship. “It should be a continuation of what I’ve done here in the Festo room,” he says enthusiastically. “Working with Festo and the Mitsubishi robot is what made me want to go into mechatronics.” He received his A Level results in the summer achieving a double distinction* in his engineering technical, an A in maths A Level and an A in his Physics A Level. Charlie joined the UTC in Year 12 after a recommendation from a friend who told him it was one of the best places for Engineering in the area. After attending an Open Day, he knew it was the right fit. “My engineering ability has skyrocketed compared to anywhere else I would have gone,” Charlie reflects. He says the UTC is structured very differently from other schools and offers a unique and focused learning experience. A standout moment for Charlie was competing in the WorldSkills National Finals in Automation, where his team ranked in the top six in the country, going head-to-head with university students and apprentices. Looking back, Charlie is confident that joining the UTC was the right choice. “There’s a massive difference in my destination compared to if I’d stayed in my hometown,” he says.

Since joining the UTC in Year 9, Oliver has never looked back—firm in his belief that it was the best decision for his education and future career. He collected his A Level results this summer achieving a double distinction* in his creative and digital media technical, a A in A Level Art and a B in English Language. Reflecting on his time at the UTC, Oliver shared how much he valued the supportive and knowledgeable staff, especially Miss Plews and Miss Payne. “They have a genuine passion for media and understand all the equipment used—and they help you understand it too,” he said. Studying for a Diploma in Creative Digital Media alongside A Levels in Art and English Literature, Oliver has thrived in the practical, hands-on learning environment. “You get the chance to try everything and then find out what your favourite subjects are,” he explained, highlighting how access to professional equipment and a variety of creative units helped shape his interests and skills. Oliver has taken full advantage of industry partnerships through the UTC. He worked with Stream 7 and Screen Yorkshire, contributing to editing footage and producing a short-film trailer. His creativity has extended beyond the classroom too—he even led a promotional campaign for the bar where works part-time, showcasing his ability to apply media skills in real-world contexts. Oliver is now at the University of Salford studying Television and Radio. With MediaCity right on his doorstep and close links to major broadcasters like ITV and the BBC, he’s excited to immerse himself in Salford’s vibrant creative scene.

Eighteen-year-old Creative and Digital media student Grace received her A Level results this summer achieving a double distinction* in her creative and digital media technical and a B in A Level Art. Grace was attracted to the UTC because there’s a different way of doing things. “There’s a lot more freedom here,” she explains. “I feel that I can breathe and do what I want to do.” Coming from a more traditional academic environment, Grace was drawn to the UTC’s smaller, more creative space. She describes it as “small, cozy and unorthodox,” which gave her the environment she needed to grow and express herself. Although she admits A Levels were intense and challenging at times, she looks back on the experience with a sense of accomplishment. “It was definitely the right decision to come here; I can’t picture myself doing anything else really,” Grace reflects. Grace has secured an offer from Sheffield Hallam University, but has chosen to defer her place to take a gap year focused on personal growth and professional development. She’ll be working with an independent creative team, Hekate Tales, applying her skills in storyboarding and animation. Her long-term vision is to build an independent career, taking on her own commissions and collaborating on creative projects. With her drive and talent, it will be exciting to see what stories Grace brings to life next.