Students Get a Taste of Medicine at Mini Medics Workshop Over 60 budding medics from Teign School, Paignton Academy, and Dawlish Community College visited South Devon UTC this term  for a unique Mini Medics Workshop, aimed at inspiring the next generation of healthcare professionals. The Year 9 students took part in a variety of hands-on activities designed to simulate real-world healthcare scenarios, from taking vital signs to practising first-aid techniques. Each participant proudly received a certificate of participation, marking their first exciting step into the world of medical training. The event showcased South Devon UTC’s cutting-edge Health Pathway, which prepares students in Years 10 and 12 for careers in the NHS, social care, and other allied health professions. Designed in collaboration with healthcare employers and delivered in industry-standard facilities, the course blends academic excellence with practical, workplace-ready skills. South Devon UTC is now accepting Year 10 and Year 12 applications for September 2025 and 2026. If you're interested in a career in healthcare, don’t miss the chance to explore what makes the UTC unique.  An open day and health taster session are coming up on the 15th of July and places can be reserved here.  Claire Plumb, Headteacher at South Devon UTC, said: "It was a pleasure to welcome students from across Devon to experience our Health Pathway in action. The engagement, curiosity, and confidence they showed was fantastic. Whether they go on to become nurses, paramedics, or physiotherapists, this taster gave them a valuable head start." Matthew Shanks, CEO of Education South West, said: "Opportunities like this are so powerful for opening young people's eyes to career paths they might not have considered. South Devon UTC is leading the way in delivering future-facing education, connecting learning to life and ambition to opportunity."

Former South Devon UTC Student Returns to Inspire Year 13 Students with Advanced Electronics Masterclass South Devon UTC  recently welcomed back former student, Ed Coomer, to deliver an engaging and insightful Electronics masterclass to Year 13 students. Ed now works for Spirent Communications PLC, testing components used in satellite tracking and global positioning.  Spirent is the leading global provider of automated test and assurance solutions for networks, cybersecurity, and positioning. Focusing on alternative current (AC) circuits, Ed provided practical examples and hands-on activities, significantly enhancing the students' understanding of the subject. During the session, students had the opportunity to construct their own circuit boards using the college's prototyping equipment. They built mini circuits, tested them with oscilloscopes, and documented their results, effectively applying their knowledge of AC circuits in a practical setting. Claire Plumb, Headteacher at South Devon UTC, said: "It's incredibly inspiring to see our former students return and share their expertise. Ed's masterclass provided a valuable opportunity for our Year 13 students to deepen their understanding of electronics through practical application. This kind of real-world experience is vital in preparing them for future careers in the field." Matthew Shanks, CEO of Education South West, said: "We are committed to providing our students with the best possible education and opportunities. Ed's visit exemplifies this commitment, bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical skills. It's fantastic to see our students engaged and learning from someone who was once in their shoes."

South Devon UTC Students meet future employers at Careers and Opportunities Fair   South Devon University Technical College (SDUTC) were delighted to hold another of their highly successful Careers and Opportunity Fair. This event gave students the opportunity of meeting representatives from high-profile employers and education providers specialising in Engineering, Digital Technology and Health Care Science sectors. Students were able to speak in depth to prospective employers and to find more out about the careers, work placements and training opportunities available to them.   Amongst the many exhibitors were leading employers such as the NHS, Network Rail, Sibelco, Centrex, Babcock International, Falmouth University, University of Plymouth, University South Wales, the Royal Navy, Royal Air Force and the British Army Recruiting Group.  Many exhibitors commented that they were really impressed with the students who came well prepared and talked with knowledge about their chosen pathway. One of the students commented: “It’s been brilliant having so many organisations here today, and this event has really helped me make a decision as to which career I want to do.” Thank you to all employers and training providers who made this event so successful. The Careers Fair is a great example where every student leaves the College with the knowledge, skills and support they need to progress into world of work.

Breakfast Boost: South Devon UTC’s Breakfast Club Gets Students Off to a Great Start   South Devon UTC is proud to announce the success of its new breakfast club, which launched at the start of this academic year to provide students with a healthy start to their school day. With a focus on improving concentration and wellbeing, the breakfast club has quickly become a popular spot for students to socialise, energise, and focus on the day ahead. Held in the school canteen, the breakfast club offers a range of nutritious options, including cereal, jams, and other items supplied by the local foodbank. Sainsbury’s has also generously contributed healthy food vouchers and additional supplies to ensure all students have access to a nourishing start each morning. The club’s popularity has soared, with attendance growing threefold since the club started. Students from various year groups have come together, creating a supportive and social atmosphere where they can chat and build connections before their lessons begin. Claire Plumb, Headteacher at South Devon UTC, said: “Seeing different groups of students coming together for a chat is incredibly rewarding. The breakfast club not only helps our students concentrate better in class but also builds a sense of community and inclusion. It’s wonderful to see how quickly it has become a part of our school culture.” Matthew Shanks, CEO of Education South West, said: “The breakfast club is an excellent initiative that supports students’ wellbeing and academic performance. It’s fantastic to see the positive impact it’s having on the students, and we’re grateful to our local foodbank and Sainsbury’s for their contributions. It’s a great example of how our schools and local communities are working together to support students both inside and outside the classroom.”

South Devon UTC Head Presents in Parliament to Science, Innovation, and Technology Committee   This term South Devon UTC  was proud to present at the Innovation Showcase of the Science, Innovation, and Technology Committee in Westminster. South Devon UTC Headteacher Claire Plumb, Deputy CEO of Education South West Rob Coles, and UTC Head of Engineering Will Bent attended the event, following an invitation from Martin Wrigley MP, who sits on the committee and visited the UTC earlier this year. The session, which focused on the future of innovation in the UK and how the country can better support innovators, highlighted South Devon UTC’s cutting-edge approach to education. Mr Wrigley introduced the UTC, showcasing its innovative vocational curriculum that equips students with critical industry skills in engineering and healthcare. Ms Plumb gave a powerful presentation on how the school addresses local skills gaps by combining academic learning with practical, hands-on training. She emphasised how such education can be a game-changer for students, particularly for those from disadvantaged backgrounds who may not traditionally thrive in academic settings. The session also featured insights from teacher Will Bent who discussed the UTC’s engineering programme. He highlighted successful career stories of students, including one who redesigned a crucial component for a power plant and another who now works on surgical equipment. These examples clearly demonstrated the importance of practical, industry-driven learning, as well as the incredible career opportunities it can offer. South Devon UTC’s focus on bridging the gap between education and industry was a key takeaway from the showcase, with the committee members expressing strong support for the role of vocational education in preparing students for STEM careers. In closing, Ms Plumb reinforced the UTC’s commitment to ensuring that students leave not only with technical skills but also with employability skills, providing them with the tools to excel in industries crucial to the local economy. South Devon UTC continues to build strong partnerships with key local businesses, ensuring that the next generation of young people is equipped with the skills employers need. With a focus on both hard and soft skills, South Devon UTC is leading the way in preparing students for successful careers in engineering, healthcare and beyond. Ms Plumb said: “We are incredibly proud of our work at South Devon UTC. By working closely with local industries, we ensure that our students graduate with not only the technical expertise needed to succeed in today’s workforce but also the soft skills that are essential for career growth. Our students are not just equipped for a job, they are prepared to thrive in their chosen industries.” Rob Coles, Deputy CEO of Education South West, said: “We are truly grateful to Martin Wrigley MP for his support of South Devon UTC and for inviting us to present at the Innovation Showcase. It was an incredible opportunity to highlight the vital role that vocational education plays in addressing the skills gap in our local communities. “By bridging the gap between education and industry, South Devon UTC is helping to ensure that our young people leave us ready to join the workforce. We look forward to continuing our work with local employers to ensure that our students are prepared for success and can play their part in fuelling their local economy”

Tidal Waves of Inspiration: Newton Abbot Students Visit Bridgwater’s Groundbreaking Tidal Barrier Project   A dozen ambitious Year 12 engineers from South Devon UTC  had the unique opportunity to visit the Bridgwater Tidal Barrier project, a major civil engineering initiative run by Kier Group PLC this term.  The students were given an exclusive tour of the live works taking place on-site, where they saw massive cranes sinking concrete support piles into the ground and learned about the scale and complexity of the project. The Bridgwater Tidal Barrier, designed to protect the town from rising sea levels and flooding, is an enormous engineering feat, and the students gained valuable insight into the various stages of the construction. From the public viewing platform, the students observed the large-scale works in action and received a comprehensive overview of the project from the team at Kier Group. In addition to exploring the technical aspects of the project, the students were also introduced to the range of careers within the civil engineering sector. They were informed about the different routes into these professions and the diverse opportunities available in the field, from project management to hands-on engineering roles. The visit sparked enthusiasm in the students, many of whom are considering engineering as a future career. The visit was part of the UTC’s broader initiative to connect students with industry leaders and provide them with real-world experiences that complement their academic learning. Claire Plumb, Headteacher at South Devon UTC said: “It was incredible for our students to see such a major engineering project up close and to learn about all the different roles involved in bringing it to life. The group gained invaluable experience, not only seeing the scale of the project but also learning about the real-world applications of the skills they are developing in their engineering studies. This visit has certainly inspired them to think about the exciting possibilities for their futures in civil engineering.” Matthew Shanks, CEO of Education South West, said: “This trip is a great example of how we’re preparing our students for the future by giving them hands-on exposure to the industries they could one day work in. The Bridgwater Tidal Barrier project is a prime example of the scale and impact that civil engineering can have, and we are proud to offer our students the chance to engage with such groundbreaking work.”

South Devon UTC Students Visit Energy from Waste Centre to Explore Cutting-Edge Science   Year 11 students from South Devon UTC  recently had the exciting opportunity to visit the Energy from Waste (EfW) centre in Devonport. The visit provided valuable, real-world experience related to their science curriculum, as they learned about the cutting-edge process of converting waste into renewable energy. During the visit, the students toured the facility, where up to 100 lorries a day deliver residual waste, which is then burned at temperatures of around 1000°C. The process generates steam and electricity, playing a key role in reducing reliance on fossil fuels. The students were able to witness firsthand how this advanced technology works and ask insightful questions, deepening their understanding of renewable energy and its role in sustainable development. Many students were particularly fascinated by the apprenticeship opportunities available at the EfW centre and expressed interest in pursuing careers in the energy sector. Some even took contact details to seek further guidance on potential career paths. South Devon University Technical College offers a cutting-edge curriculum and has strong links to industry, the college provides students with the skills and knowledge needed to secure a job in their chosen fields. Claire Plumb, Headteacher at South Devon UTC, said: “A big thank you goes to the staff at the Energy from Waste centre in Devonport for hosting the students and providing such an engaging and educational experience. The day was a great success, and the students left with a new appreciation for the role science plays in the energy sector. “This was a fantastic opportunity for our Year 11 students to see science in action at the Energy from Waste centre. The tour gave them a deeper understanding of how science, technology, and sustainability intersect in the real world. We are incredibly proud of how engaged and curious our students were during the visit, and it’s wonderful to see them exploring career opportunities in the sector.” Matthew Shanks, CEO of Education South West, said: “At Education South West we are committed to providing students with hands-on learning experiences that prepare them for successful futures. This visit to the Energy from Waste centre was a perfect example of how we can inspire students to think critically about sustainable solutions and the roles they can play in tackling global challenges. We’re grateful to the team at the EfW centre for their collaboration and for offering such a valuable experience to our students.”

Kitson Boyce Kicks Off Partnership with South Devon UTC   South Devon UTC  excited to announce that Kitson Boyce Legal Services has become the official sponsor of their football team, providing them with brand-new football shirts for the upcoming season. This generous sponsorship is a fantastic boost for the players, ensuring they step onto the pitch with a sense of pride and confidence. The partnership between Kitson Boyce Legal Services and South Devon UTC reflects a shared commitment to nurturing teamwork, resilience, and sportsmanship among students. The team has been buzzing with excitement since receiving their new kits, and they are eager to represent the school in their upcoming fixtures, proudly wearing the new shirts. Claire Plumb, Headteacher at South Devon UTC, said: “We are incredibly grateful to Kitson Boyce Legal Services for their generous support. This sponsorship not only gives our football team a fantastic new look but also reinforces the values we work hard to instill in our students – teamwork, resilience, and ambition. Our students are thrilled and motivated to showcase their skills on the field, thanks to this incredible partnership.” Matthew Shanks, CEO of Education South West, said: “The support from Kitson Boyce Legal Services is an amazing contribution to the school’s sports programme. It’s partnerships like these that not only enhance our students’ experience but also strengthen our school community. We’re looking forward to watching the football team grow both on and off the pitch with this fantastic new support.”

Driven to Succeed: UTC Newton Abbot Students Visit Haynes Motor Museum   In an exciting chapter of their educational journey, Year 11 students from South Devon UTC  recently embarked on a memorable trip to the Haynes Motor Museum as part of the school’s enrichment programme.  This hands-on experience allowed students to explore the fascinating world of automotive history, featuring an impressive collection of classic cars, vintage vehicles, and cutting-edge technological innovations. The trip offered students a unique opportunity to engage with the engineering, design, and history of transportation. As they roamed the museum, they displayed curiosity and enthusiasm, actively engaging with the exhibits and asking insightful questions about the evolution of vehicles and the technology behind them. Their keen interest sparked engaging discussions on how transportation has shaped and will continue to influence the modern world. The educational trip also received high praise from staff, who highlighted the students’ exemplary behaviour and engagement throughout the day. The respectful conduct and thoughtful participation made the experience a resounding success, reinforcing the value of experiential learning. The Haynes Motor Museum trip is just one of the many initiatives designed by South Devon UTC to provide students with enriching experiences, helping them to develop a broader understanding of the world while preparing them for their future careers. Haynes Motor Museum is the UK’s largest collection of cars and motorcycles, with over 300 vehicles to explore. The museum offers engaging trails and hands-on activities alongside its 15 exhibitions. Claire Plumb, Head of College at South Devon UTC, said: “This visit to Haynes Motor Museum perfectly complemented our Year 11 curriculum.  It’s important that our students not only learn from textbooks but also experience real-world applications of what they’re studying. The trip ignited their curiosity and inspired them to think about the endless possibilities within engineering and design.” Matthew Shanks, CEO of Education South West, said: “At Education South West we are dedicated to providing our students with opportunities that inspire both academic and personal growth. This trip to the Haynes Motor Museum is a perfect example of how we can encourage our students to explore beyond the classroom, equipping them with the skills to navigate the world of tomorrow.”

South Devon UTC Showcases Innovation and Unique Educational Offer to Martin Wrigley MP   South Devon UTC recently welcomed Martin Wrigley MP for a special visit to tour its state-of-the-art facilities and meet with staff and students. The MP was joined by Headteacher Claire Plumb, Education South West Deputy CEO Rob Coles, and a representative from the Baker Dearing Trust, a charity that supports University Technical Colleges (UTCs) across the UK.  The visit highlighted the innovative educational model that South Devon UTC offers, providing students with specialised courses in engineering and healthcare in collaboration with local employers to equip students with real-world skills. Martin Wrigley MP, who represents the Newton Abbot constituency, is passionate about supporting local education and ensuring that young people are well-prepared for the future job market. He took the opportunity to meet with students from a range of courses, discussing their academic progress and future aspirations. Claire Plumb, Headteacher at South Devon UTC, said: “It was a pleasure to welcome Martin Wrigley MP to South Devon UTC. Our students are gaining invaluable skills that will open doors to a wide range of careers, and we are excited about the opportunities they are experiencing here. It was great to have a chance to share this excitement with Mr Wrigley.” Martin Wrigley, MP for Newton Abbot, said: “South Devon UTC is doing a fantastic job in preparing students for the future. The facilities here are impressive, and it’s clear that students are benefiting from a curriculum that is directly aligned with the skills needed by industries today.”