New UTC

[DC17C]

Hi There cannot believe I have got to the stage of looking around sixth forms for child no 2 who will be sitting GCSEs next May. We went to visit the new University Technical College at Berkeley Green and was pleasantly surprised. It would mean being going to a new school with no track record but looking at the UTC Filton ...they have had some young people get some great results. The staff seemed enthusiastic and the facilities are pretty amazing for a young person wanting to focus more on science, maths, engineering and digital technology.
I have to say it could be a serious option for ds and there is a subsidised bus service from Gloucester.
We will still look round the local sixth forms as well but just thought Id share ....it also takes a yr 10 intake for GCSE’s....which might suit some who are not happy in their current school or fancy a different type of school experience...

[Tinkers]

We have a UTC in Reading. Ofsted rating it as outstanding recently.
A level choices are limited (I think maths, physocs, chemistry and computer science from memory) but they offer BTEC as well. They specialise in engineering and computer science.
If that’s the route someone wants to go that they look like they have a great offering and provide exposure to local companies in a way schools don’t.

I’ve done a couple of STEM activites at UTC Reading, I would have no qualms with DD going if she wanted to, however her interests lie elsewhere.

[DC17C]

Yes that is the thing...it is taking young people down the STEM route with no other options. DS is quite interested in doing Philosophy and Ethics Alevel along side maths and physics....this would mean sacrificing that subject...but then he has time to decide yet ...and he needs to get through GCSEs first;)