Watford MP Richard Harrington has welcomed the announcement that the Government has approved plans for a University Technical College in Watford.
The College which will open in September 2014 will specialise in Computer Science, Hospitality and E-Tourism and will provide 14- 19 year olds the opportunity to gain skills and qualifications in these fields as well as the standard curriculum. The purpose of these Colleges is to create a new educational environment for young people looking for a direct link to employment after completing their studies or an alternative way into further education.
Richard Harrington was keen to establish such a College in Watford and has been working closely with the Meller Educational Trust and local companies to create plans for a school that will meet the needs of local employers and students.
The College will open in purpose- adapted building in central Watford, potentially in Link House in Colonial Way, and the companies including Hilton Worldwide, CAE Technologies and Twin Technologies, which are supporting the school will play an active part in shaping the curriculum so that pupils are learning the skills needed to work within such organisations. The College is also linked with the University of Hertfordshire.
Richard said:
“ I am so pleased to have received Government approval for the UTC today. Ever since I learnt about the modern University Technical College I have been very keen to develop one for Watford and I have been very grateful to work with the Meller Educational Trust to get the project going.
“The UTC will specialise in hospitality, computer science and e-tourism, all growth industries and sectors that employ heavily in the local area. We have many wonderful schools and a great College of Further Education in Watford but for young people looking for a more vocational and employment led education, choices are limited. With 600 places available at full capacity it will also ease the pressure on the number of secondary school places.
“During its development and when open, the UTC will work closely with local businesses on the curriculum, work projects and helping pupils gain commercial experience, in return these companies will be helping train a new generation of future skilled employees.
“This is a significant investment in the future of Watford and the young people that live here.”