On Friday 10th January 2025, UTC Portsmouth was delighted to welcome Amanda Martin, MP for Portsmouth North, to the college. As the local MP, Amanda’s visit was an excellent opportunity to showcase the impact UTC Portsmouth is having on education and career opportunities for young people in her constituency.
Amanda was accompanied on the tour by James Doherty, Principal of UTC Portsmouth, and Kate Ambrosi, Chief Executive of the Baker Dearing Educational Trust, which supports the UTC network across the UK. Together, they explored the college’s state-of-the-art facilities and discussed the unique education and training opportunities available to students at UTC Portsmouth.
One key area of discussion was the pathways available to students after leaving UTC Portsmouth, including apprenticeships and university options. Both James and Kate shared insights into how the college collaborates with Employer Partners and universities to ensure students are equipped with the skills and knowledge needed to excel in their future careers.
A highlight of the visit was a tour of the cutting-edge engineering studio, a provision which sets UTC Portsmouth apart. Amanda Martin expressed a particular interest in this area, as she trained in design and technology before becoming a primary school teacher.
The visit also featured a student panel, giving Amanda the chance to hear directly from students about their reasons for choosing UTC Portsmouth and what they love about studying here. The students spoke passionately about their experiences in the college’s Enrichment and Training programme, which provides opportunities to gain and develop skill sets beyond traditional STEM education. This program allows students to build on their standard qualifications and tailor their learning pathways to suit their individual needs. Training options include the Gold CREST Award, Open University courses, and Project Pipeline, where students collaborate on projects with Employer Partners.
During the panel, students highlighted how working with businesses and organisations has shaped their decisions for the future. One student shared their positive experience of working closely with the NHS, which helped confirm their study choice and career path.
Speaking after the visit, Principal James Doherty said:
“We were proud to showcase UTC Portsmouth to Amanda Martin, and highlight the significant impact our college has had in providing high-quality STEM-focused education in Portsmouth North and beyond. Our students' work ethic and curiosity for learning are a constant source of pride, and it was great to hear them speak so positively during the student panel about their experiences in our Enrichment and Training programs, an offering we provide to expand their skill sets outside of traditional education.”
The student panel with Amanda Martin, MP, Kate Ambrosi, chief executive at the Baker Dearing Trust and James Doherty, principal at UTC Portsmouth.
Amanda Martin’s visit highlighted the importance of supporting STEM-focused education and the need to provide young people with opportunities that prepare them for the workforce of tomorrow. UTC Portsmouth remains committed to delivering an innovative, high-quality education that inspires the next generation of mathematicians, engineers, scientists, and digital innovators. The college is proud to offer an accessible STEM-focused education for the local area, enabling students to work closely with industry experts and build pathways to incredible destinations.