by Jenni Horn

Young people are being asked their views as Medway once again pursues the chance to set up a University Technical College (UTC).

An initial bid for a UTC, specialising in engineering and construction, was submitted to the Department for Education earlier this year, but, despite positive feedback, the college for 14 to 19-year-olds did not get the go ahead.

The board behind the bid, which is led by the University of Greenwich, MidKent College and Medway Council, has launched an online survey to asking young people what they think about the proposal for a Medway UTC.

The board hopes to get as much feedback as possible, to use should any future rounds of applications be announced.

Prof Alan Reed, director of regional development at the Medway Campus of the University of Greenwich, and chair of the Medway UTC board, said: "We have forged strong links with local business and industry leaders over the past year and our priority now is to keep the momentum built behind the bid going.

"This survey is about going out to young people and families in Medway and gathering as much feedback as we can so we can not only re-evaluate the options we’re considering but we can be ready to go should any future rounds for UTC applications be announced in the near future."

Offering a range of practically based courses and qualifications including GCSEs, A levels, BTECs and NVQs, the UTC would offer hands-on training and academic study led by the University of Greenwich and local employers.

The idea has also won the support of the Royal School of Military Engineering and major employers including BAE Systems, Delphi Diesel Systems, BAM Construct UK and Land Securities, who would also offer training and work experience.

Sue McLeod, acting principal at MidKent College, said: "We believe Medway’s economy would benefit greatly from having a UTC but we need as much information as possible to ensure we are truly representing the views of the local community."

Lt Col Gareth Baker RE Commanding Officer of 1 Royal School of Military Engineering said: "At the RSME we train and motivate young soldiers in the practical disciplines of engineering and construction to meet the most demanding of conditions on operations.

"We see the UTC as delivering the same goal for young people of Medway; giving them high quality practical training in skills that are needed in a demanding employment market."

Cllr Les Wicks, who is responsible for children’s services at Medway Council, said: "I believe our young people deserve this chance and would ask everyone to support this project and share their views by completing the survey."

To complete the survey, visit www.medway.gov.uk/utc