Able and Qualified
Our aim at Aylesbury UTC is to send young people into the world able and qualified to play their full part in it. The destinations of our young people are one way to check if we are successful in our efforts. Often we say goodbye to our Year 11 or 13 students knowing that they will go on to make a difference through
- University,
- Employment
- or an apprenticeship at other organisations.
However, this year we have been far more selfish!
Computing Student – Ben Ward
Ben has been studying on our Computing pathway at Aylesbury UTC since Year 10 and has just completed Year 13.
Ben says:
“I have completed 4 years of study in the Computing course, which comprises of IT, Computer Science and Creative Digital Media Production. It includes a wide range of areas that provide solid understanding and background to get into industry, either through full-time employment or an apprenticeship. University-based pathways are also encouraged, with a few students choosing to go down that route this year. “
As well as achieving very strong qualifications, with achieving two level 3 distinction grades and a predicted distinction star in Media, Ben has contributed to the school through his tireless work on the marketing team, being an ambassador, completing work experience here and taking on IT technician duties whenever he can.
Importance of Next Steps meetings
This first came about after Ben’s Next Steps meeting with the Careers Lead and Principal. All students are invited to attend these to discuss their plans for the future and receive support in choosing what is right for them.
IT Technician Apprenticeship Programme
We have been so impressed that our Principal, Nick Lamb, supported the opportunity to approach our Trust, the Merchant Taylors’ Oxfordshire Academy Trust, who has set up an IT Technician Apprenticeship Programme and Ben will be our first enrolment.
Nick says:
“In short, Ben is simply too good for us to lose and we have every confidence that he will play a major role in the success of students at Bucks UTC and our Trust in the future.”
Purposeful Destinations
The determination to ensure young people reach purposeful destinations is a key feature of our school. Ben is very able and qualified and delighted to accept the offer for the IT Technician Apprenticeship that MTOAT, the Trust that Aylesbury UTC is part of, had been developing. The role will provide a broad understanding and real-world experience in tackling IT problems and providing support for many people and multiple schools.
Moving away from a traditional secondary school with significantly more students, to Aylesbury UTC with a more tailored and specialist approach, has provided a greater range of opportunities. Read more Student Views here
