Norfolk university technical college plan approved

Students will study vocational courses alongside academic courses

Plans for a new university technical college (UTC) for Norfolk have received initial government approval.

The energy and engineering college for 14 to 19 year olds would be based in Norwich.

A statement of intent, submitted by joint sponsors City College Norwich and the University of East Anglia (UEA), has gained ministerial approval.

Now further plans will be submitted for final approval for Department of Education funding.

The UTC would offer places to 600 students.

UTCs combine practical and academic study and specialise in technical studies.

Students will continue to study GCSEs and A levels alongside their technical training.

The principal of City College Norwich, Dick Palmer said: "We have some really significant employers within energy, manufacturing and engineering based here in Norfolk.

"These employers can and should play a key part in the future economic development of our region."

Dr Ben Milner, from UEA, said: "A UTC in the east of England that specialises in these areas would be beneficial to many local employers as there is significant demand for such suitably skilled young people.

"It would also fit well with some of the University's own interests."