The UTC South Durham based in Newton Aycliffe, is a school and sixth form with ties with some of the region’s biggest industry names and last week flew the flag for engineering. All 150 pupils at UTC, came into contact with businesses including Hitachi and Husqvarna as part of Tomorrow’s Engineering Week. Supported by Engineering UK, the scheme is designed to promote, inspire and encourage people to go into engineering careers. Catherine Purvis-Mawson, business engagement manager for the school, said: “With the UTC being engineering and technical focused, it was appropriate to take part. “Students have gone out on a huge variety of visits to different industry and business partners.” Organisations involved in the week-long programme included Cummins, of Darlington, Bignall Group, Hyrdam Engineering, Husqvarna and Hitachi. The school also welcomed visits from the Royal Navy, sports scientists from Sunderland University and the Army Reserves from the town. On November 11th the Army Reserves brought in two military vehicles which were parked up in the engineering hall. UTC student: Jack Drummey commented: ”This was a great experience because it looked at career options and gave us a broader view of the types of engineering in the workplace and the Army. Taylor Mitchell: the Army Reserve visit was really eye opening in the life and responsibilities it entails”. Amy Corking: “This army visit was very inspirational because it helped me see the difficulties and troubles the army reserves face to help our country. Also it was good to learn the maths and engineering they do and to actually sit inside the vehicles Kody Davidson: “This experience inspired me to consider a career in the Forces. It has been a really good insight into the engineering roles played by the Army. “It’s been really positive with lots of industry partners keen to work with us because they hope we will provide the next engineers of the future,” added Ms Purvis-Mawson. The UTC held Year 10 and 12 Open Days on November 16th and November 19 from 11am to 1pm.
