Waterfront UTC was proud to welcome a distinguished group of guests for the official opening of its new T Level suite, marked by a ribbon-cutting ceremony led by local Lauren Edwards MP. The event celebrated a significant milestone in the college’s ongoing commitment to delivering high-quality technical education and strengthening links between education and industry.
Alongside Lauren Edwards were supporting governors, employer partners and representatives from Baker Dearing. Their presence highlighted the importance of collaboration between education providers, policymakers and industry in preparing young people for skilled careers.
The opening of the new T Level suite represents a major investment in specialist facilities designed to reflect real-world industry environments. Following the ribbon cutting, guests were invited to tour the department and engage directly with T Level students, who were on hand to showcase the work they have been developing since the start of the academic year in September.
Students confidently presented their projects, demonstrating not only their growing technical expertise but also their professionalism, creativity and ambition. The event provided a valuable opportunity for learners to network with employers, governors and the MP, holding meaningful conversations about their aspirations and the clear links between their studies and the career pathways they hope to pursue. These discussions brought the purpose of T Levels to life, illustrating how classroom learning translates into practical skills and future employment opportunities.
A key highlight of the event was the demonstration of Waterfront UTC’s advanced technical industry equipment. Guests were able to experience the college’s virtual reality system, view drone technology in action and learn more about Matterport, which is used to create detailed digital models of real-world spaces. This equipment plays a vital role in supporting students with their assignments and projects, enabling them to work with the same tools and technologies used by professionals in industry today.
In some cases, students have already taken this equipment out on site visits, further embedding employer engagement into their learning. By combining hands-on experience, cutting-edge technology and direct input from industry partners, Waterfront UTC is ensuring that students develop both the knowledge and practical experience needed to succeed in their chosen fields.
The opening of the T Level suite stands as a powerful example of how education, industry and government can work together to create meaningful opportunities for young people. With the support of its partners and the enthusiasm of its students, Waterfront UTC continues to strengthen its role as a hub for technical excellence, preparing learners for the skilled careers of the future.
