Swindon’s University Technology College reached a milestone today when principal Angela Barker-Dench pressed a button to launch the next phase of construction work on its £10m state-of-the-art building.
Ms Barker-Dench started a demolition robot to clear the Bristol Street site in the heart of Swindon's Railway Village, allowing contractor BAM Construction to begin building the UTC, which opens next September. 
UTC sponsors and partners were in attendance including UTC directors from Oxford Brookes University and Johnson Matthey Fuel Cells.
The old school building and the iconic water tower on the site – both Grade-II listed – will be key features of the college.
UTC Swindon will cater for 600, 14 to 19 year olds interested in pursuing a career in engineering.
It will focus on engineering and entrepreneurship and students will have the opportunity to gain skills relevant to careers in all aspects of the engineering sector.
Studying hours at UTC Swindon will be 8.30am to 5.30pm Monday to Thursday, with a 4.30pm finish on Fridays. The aim is to mirror the typical engineering workplace and prepare students for life beyond study. Similarly, there will be no homework other than exam revision, however students will be able to access their learning online for independent study.
Alongside engineering, all 14–16 year olds will study core subjects at GCSE level, while relevant A level courses will be available when students are 16. There will also be a wide range of enrichment activities and physical education.
The deadline to apply for places is January 31, 2014.
Online applications can be submitted at www.utcswindon.co.uk/admissions-and-applications/make-an-application on 07990 601 516 or email info@utcswindon.co.uk.
