Second University Technical College (UTC) for Doncaster approved

This major development marks a significant milestone for the city and its young people, strengthening the region’s commitment to innovation, skills, and economic growth.

Co-Chief Executive Officers Helen Redford-Hernandez and Garath Rawson welcomed the decision, describing it as, "a transformative opportunity for Doncaster’s future workforce and a proud moment for the Trust".

The new UTC will specialise in Green Technologies and Health Sciences; two sectors closely aligned with regional priorities and areas of rapid growth.

Over the past year, the Trust has worked extensively to build a strong and diverse employer portfolio linked directly to these specialisms, ensuring that students gain access to cutting-edge industry expertise, real-world learning, and clear pathways into high-skill careers.

Brighter Futures Learning Partnership Trust also extends its sincere thanks to its many employer and industry partners – including Hybrid Air Vehicles, CPH2, Vulcan, the NHS and the Universities of Sheffield among many others whose expertise and advocacy have helped shape the vision of the new UTC.

In collaboration with City of Doncaster Council, significant progress has already been made in planning the new institution. Land for the UTC has been secured through the support of the council, enabling the next stage of development to begin.

Appreciation is also extended to Lord Baker and colleagues at the Baker Dearing Trust who have been champions for expanding the UTC provision in the city. The Trust also acknowledges the valuable support of Doncaster’s MPs and regional political leaders for working to secure this important opportunity.

Opening to students from Year 7 through to Year 13, the UTC will serve young people across Doncaster and the wider region, ensuring broad access to technical education that meets the needs of local employers and supports the city’s long-term economic ambitions.

The Trust intends to build on the proven success of the existing Doncaster UTC, which has established a strong reputation for high-quality technical education, strong employer engagement, and outstanding student destinations.

The new UTC will offer even greater opportunities, including expanded apprenticeship pathways, and deeper partnerships with both Sheffield universities.

Co-CEO Helen Redford-Hernandez said: "This is fantastic news for Doncaster. Our second UTC will provide life changing opportunities for young people while helping to drive forward the city’s strategic priorities for growth, sustainability and innovation."

Co-CEO Garath Rawson added: "We are proud to be at the forefront of technical education in the region. The strength of our employer partnerships and the commitment of our local authority have been vital in reaching this point.We are excited to begin the next phase of development."

Councillor Sue Farmer, Cabinet Member for Children, Young People and Families, said: “We are absolutely delighted that plans for a second UTC in Doncaster have been approved. This means we can offer even more places and make sure more of our young people have access to this exciting type of learning.

“Since opening in 2020, our first UTC has been a real success. Thanks to the fantastic teams behind it, many students have discovered their strengths, built confidence through strong links with employers, gained real-world experience, and moved on to further study, apprenticeships and great careers.

“The new UTC will build on this progress and play an important role in our ambition to build a strong, diverse education offer in Doncaster, as part of our 10-year Education and Skills Strategy. It will also allow us to develop specialist learning in areas that really matter for Doncaster’s key local industries, such as health sciences and green energy.”

The Trust will release further details in the coming months as plans progress for the new state-of-the-art facility, which is expected to play a central role in supporting Doncaster’s future workforce and economy.