Swindon’s University Technical College (UTC) has been officially opened by the Duke of York, who made his second visit to the site in 10 months.
His Royal Highness met students, directors, teachers, and business partners of UTC Swindon during his visit and unveiled a commemorative plaque to officially open the college. 
Also at the event were directors of Swindon-based Johnson Matthey Fuel Cells and Oxford Brookes University – both sponsors of UTC Swindon.
UTC Swindon principal Angela Barker-Dench showed the Duke around the college site so he could see architects’ Scott Brownrigg stunning design and construction firm BAM’s high-quality build.
He also visited labs and engineering workshops designed especially for the UTC Swindon curriculum.
Pictured: HRH The Duke of York with UTC Swindon principal Angela Barker-Dench
The Duke visited the UTC Swindon site in February when the college was still under construction.
Angela Barker-Dench said: “The official opening of the college is an historic moment for UTC Swindon – and another milestone in the town’s heritage. His Royal Highness has a passion for engineering, manufacturing and apprenticeships. He shares our beliefs about skills and preparing students for the workplace or University.”
As Patron of the Baker Dearing Educational Trust, the Duke encourages parents, businesses and others to help young people develop. He supports enterprise-focused education and helps providers promote their opportunities.
UTC Swindon is based in a new, £10m state-of-the-art facility, with the old school building and the iconic water tower featuring prominently. Both structures, which are Grade II listed, have been treated sympathetically, with the Water Tower being restored and brought back into educational use.
