Gloucestershire based Versarien take lead in sponsoring young talent at region's new technical school

Leading local employers are appreciating the fantastic talent pool which will be provided by the new University Technical College (UTC) at the Gloucestershire Science and Technology Park, Berkeley by securing access with sponsored internships.

The first of many employer sponsorship schemes has been confirmed providing learners at the new secondary school with the ability to be ‘talent spotted’ by future employers who wish to recruit them on completion of their studies.

Opening in September 2017, SGS Berkeley Green UTC will specialise in Engineering, Advanced Manufacturing and Digital Technologies including cyber security and will provide first class opportunities for young people to gain the skills required by these sectors. The UTC, unlike other secondary schools in Gloucestershire, provides a unique opportunity for young people, to spend a minimum of 40% of their time learning about and gaining vocational skills and experience needed by employers whilst still meeting the requirements of the national curriculum due to the extended school day.

The investment in the vocational curriculum, designed by employers, will set learners apart and local employers are keen to tap into this source of future talent for their sector.

Neill Ricketts, Chief Executive Officer Versarien, one of Gloucestershire’s leading manufacturing companies is the first confirmed sponsor and is urging others to follow suit and is delighted to be able to offer an annual internship to students joining the UTC either in year 10 or 12. 

In explaining his commitment Neill commented:“Employers are desperate for talent and we need to retain the best we possibly can do within the region.  So if I find the talent is so strong rather than limit the opportunity I would engage all with talent as I need young talent for the future of my company.”

The Versarien sponsorship scheme will provide successful applicants with a minimum of 4 weeks work placement each year; access and contact to one of their staff, to provide a minimum of 5 days of mentoring each year; a contribution to the students educational supplies, £200 per year; provision of workwear for the student up to a maximum of £150; and a guaranteed interview with a chance to meet and present to the directors of the company as the student completes his/her course. Finally, Versarien have also committed to make an annual contribution to the UTC Bursary Scheme to support qualifying students.

Sara-Jane Watkins, Chair of the UTC pre-opening committee states: “the UTC is a new approach to secondary education and we are currently recruiting learners to start at the new £30million redeveloped Gloucestershire Science and Technology Park. If you have a passion for digital, engineering and cyber and want a science-rich curriculum and will be starting your GCSEs or post 16 studies next year, why not come along and visit the Berkeley Green University Technical College on Saturday 5th November 10am-2pm. Backed by the university of Gloucestershire and many regional employers.”

The Gloucestershire Renewable Energy, Engineering and Nuclear skills centre is part financed by the Gloucestershire Growth Deal 2015 to 2021. GFirst LEP is delivering the Strategic Economic Plan for Gloucestershire through the Gloucestershire Growth Deal; an investment of £77.5 million for the county and part of a £12 billion long-term Government programme to revitalise local economies.