by Alan McGuinness

An attempt to set up a university technical college for Medway youngsters has won the backing of high profile businesses, individuals and institutions.

The UTC will teach boys and girls aged 14-19 much like any other school, but with a heavy accent on vocational training in areas like engineering and construction.

More than 20 organisations and key individuals have pledged their support, including property firm Land Securities, construction company BAM, and Kent Invicta Chamber of Commerce.

The preferred site is an unused block at Brompton Barracks owned by the Royal School of Military Engineering.

There will be no homework from the school as all work will be done during school hours, probably 8.30am-5pm, and the uniform will be smart business wear.

If the bid is successful it is hoped to open the college with places for up to 600 students from September 2014.

The University of Greenwich is the lead sponsor of the proposal, which is being heavily promoted by Medway council.

Chris Jones, director of learning and development at BAM, said: "Medway UTC gives us the opportunity to apply the experience and knowledge that we have built up over the last few years to a new, exciting and innovative environment, and where we can help to embed this knowledge and experience into the curriculum for the benefit of future students."

The company is behind building projects at Medway’s three academies.

Kent Invicta Chamber of Commerce, which represents more than 1,000 Kent-based businesses, said the UTC would provide "strong direction in promoting to a new generation the future skills set which is increasingly required by the region’s workforce.

"The proposed Medway University Technical College with specialisms in engineering and construction will provide an effective new approach in meeting the needs of the business and industrial community."

Malcolm Ashcroft, general manager of BAE Systems based in Marconi Way, Rochester, said: "What we think is very different about the UTC movement is that it puts business and employers at the very heart of supporting such a school.

"It provides businesses with the opportunity of assisting to shape and ensure the delivery of a technically rich and exciting curriculum that meets the needs of local employers in the agreed specialisms of engineering and construction."

Council education chief Cllr Les Wicks (Con) said it was "great to see so many local businesses pledging their support".

He said: "This college will mean we can offer young people who want to study more vocational courses the opportunity to learn from industry experts on specialist courses designed to help them excel and fulfil their ambitions."

To show your support visit www.medway.gov.uk/utc. For more information about the UTC movement visit www.utcolleges.org