A VIP ceremony has marked the start of building work on the new Central Bedfordshire University Technical College (UTC) in Houghton Regis.
Lord Baker, a former Conservative Party chairman, took part in a tree-planting event for the official launch of the work.
He is co-founder of the Baker Dearing Educational Trust, which is playing a key role in developing a national network of UTCs.
The new Central Beds facility, in Parkside Drive, is set to open in September.
It will specialise in engineering and product design, and aims to offer teenagers the chance to gain valuable technical qualifications and skills, alongside core GCSEs and A-levels.
Lord Baker said: “The Central Bedfordshire University Technical College will be very important to the local and national economy because employers need young, well-trained people with advanced technical skills.
“If we want fast broadband across the country, high-speed trains and environmentally-sustainable buildings, we haven’t got the technicians to do it.
“This UTC will give young people unrivalled career opportunities as they will leave with the skills and qualifications so desperately needed.”
The new UTC is sponsored by Cranfield University, the University of Bedfordshire and RWDI Anemos.
It is expected to be equipped to the highest standards.
Principal designate Robert Shore said that in its first year, places would be available only for Year 10 and Year 12 students.
That will coincide with the start of GCSEs and A-levels. But after that, the UTC will extend places to young people aged 14 to 19.
He added: “I’m passionate about delivering the ideals of the UTC and playing my part in developing the next generation of engineers, product designers, manufacturers and scientists.”
Councillor Mark Versallion, executive member for children’s services at Central Beds Council, said the council was proud to be associated with the new UTC.
He said: “I am delighted that we have reached this key milestone.
“I am very much looking forward to September, when the learning begins and young people get the chance to access high-quality technical education.”
> Find out more at www.centralbedsutc.org.
