Katy meets... Crewe UTC

by Katy O’Regan

If, like me, you have a child in Year 11 preparing for their GCSEs, your household is probably a whirlwind of conversations about what comes next. It was during a casual chat with other local parents that I first heard about Crewe UTC. A mum and her son spoke with such enthusiasm about their experience that I couldn’t resist finding out more. What I discovered was a modern, forward-thinking educational option designed to prepare students for the careers of tomorrow. 

Crewe UTC, officially known as the Crewe Engineering and Design University Technical College, is a specialised college for students aged 13 to 19. Its focus is on equipping young people with the skills and qualifications they need to thrive in the workforce, all while fostering a passion for engineering and design.

What Makes Crewe UTC Special? University Technical Colleges (UTCs) like Crewe UTC are government-funded colleges that combine traditional academic learning with hands-on, career-focused training. As Will Chitty, the passionate head of Crewe UTC, explained to me, these colleges are built to bridge the gap between education and industry. 

At Crewe UTC, students can study GCSEs, BTECs, A-Levels, and T Levels while specialising in engineering and design. The facilities, completed just eight years ago, boast state-of-the-art equipment and a modern feel, giving students a professional environment in which to develop their skills.

There are currently 44 UTCs across the country, strategically placed in areas where there is a workforce shortage in specific industries. Around 65% focus on engineering, while others specialise in fields such as healthcare and media. For Will Chitty, Crewe is the perfect location for an engineering college. With its rich industrial heritage and the presence of numerous large employers in the area, the UTC has prime opportunities to prepare students for meaningful careers.

Creating Aspirations, Not Just Opportunities What sets Crewe UTC apart is its emphasis on aspiration. Beyond just preparing students for jobs, the college aims to inspire them to reach for ambitious career goals. Every Thursday morning, students attend an assembly where a guest employer delivers a presentation, sharing insights into their industry and highlighting potential career paths. 

This initiative was one of Will Chitty’s priorities when he joined the college four years ago. Recognising the need for stronger ties with local businesses, he introduced a dedicated coordinator to foster these partnerships. Mr. Fergusson, a seasoned educator with real-world industry experience, was brought on board to take the lead. His role involves building relationships with employers, aligning their expertise with the college’s curriculum, and ensuring work placements and presentations are meaningful for students.

Building Vital Connections Will Chitty cannot emphasise enough the importance of connecting with employers, building relationships, and maintaining them. He proudly shared that all 40 assemblies for the next academic year are already booked with employer presentations, but Crewe UTC is always eager to build new partnerships. 

The college’s links with businesses extend far beyond Thursday morning assemblies. Employers contribute through work placements and set real-life projects for the students. These projects are an integral part of the curriculum, with students completing a minimum of six each year. 

Employers design the tasks, setting expectations and parameters, while students work in teams to develop solutions. Once the projects are complete, the employers return to hear the students present their work. This hands-on approach allows students to gain invaluable experience, preparing them for the realities of the working world while also giving businesses a chance to shape the next generation of talent.

Industry Placements: Adding Real Value Another key role for employers is providing industry placements. Will Chitty avoids the term “work experience” because he believes it undervalues the importance of these opportunities. At Crewe UTC, parents aren’t tasked with finding placements for their children; instead, the college takes charge to ensure these opportunities add real value to the curriculum. 

For one of their qualifications, the T Levels, Crewe UTC has already secured industry placements for students enrolling in September 2025. This proactive approach reflects the college’s commitment to preparing students for their future careers.

Growing a Future in Engineering Crewe UTC’s reputation is growing year by year, driven largely by word of mouth from satisfied students and parents. Students can join in Year 10 to complete their GCSEs, offering an excellent opportunity for those passionate about engineering to focus on their chosen career path from an early age. Alternatively, students can enrol in Year 12 to pursue T Levels and BTEC qualifications. 

Will Chitty understands the value of honing in on engineering as a sector from a young age. He highlights that 5% of the UK workforce is employed in engineering, yet there’s a significant shortage of skilled and experienced professionals. Engineering not only supports most sectors but is also the driving force behind technological advancement. As he says, “Engineering doesn’t just adapt to technology—it moves it forward!”

Looking Ahead As someone unfamiliar with T Levels before exploring Crewe UTC, I’ve been inspired to delve deeper into this qualification and how it complements the traditional A Levels and BTECs. In the next edition, I’ll explore these in greater detail, highlighting what they mean for students’ futures. 

For now, if you’re considering Crewe UTC for your child, the next open evening is planned for 30th January. More information, including how to book and apply, is available on their website utccrewe.co.uk. Alternatively, prospective students and their parents are welcome to arrange a tour of the facilities by emailing enquiries@creweutc.org.uk. Prospective businesses who would like to collaborate with the UTC can also contact them via the same email address. 

Crewe UTC isn’t just a school; it’s a springboard for young people passionate about engineering, equipping them with the qualifications, experience, and connections to thrive in an ever-evolving world. For those looking to step confidently into the future, Crewe UTC is a place where aspirations take flight.

All information correct as of January 2025.