£1.7m technical education programme planned for Walney School
A new technical education programme could launch at Walney School as part of a £1.7 million investment in opportunities for young people in Barrow.
Team Barrow is working with the school and the Baker Dearing Educational Trust to introduce a University Technical College Sleeve.
The proposed programme would combine classroom learning with practical training linked to local careers.
Subject to a formal decision, Team Barrow plans to provide £1.7 million from the Barrow Transformation Fund. Westmorland and Furness Council’s Cabinet is expected to consider the proposal.
Engineering and healthcare pathways planned
The programme would offer two specialist routes focused on engineering and healthcare.
These areas were chosen with help from employers and reflect sectors with strong demand for skilled workers in Barrow and the wider Furness area.
Students would use industry-standard equipment and learn in spaces designed to feel like real workplaces.
The aim is to give young people practical experience alongside their academic studies. It could also create clearer routes into apprenticeships, further education and skilled jobs.
The UTC Sleeve is expected to begin its introduction from September if the plans receive final approval.
What is a UTC Sleeve?
A UTC Sleeve brings elements of a University Technical College into an existing secondary school.
Rather than creating a separate college, the programme adds a specialist, employer-led technical pathway within the school.
It allows pupils to study core academic subjects while also taking part in hands-on learning linked to specific industries.
The model builds on the wider University Technical College movement, which focuses on technical education and stronger links between schools, universities and employers.
Facilities could benefit other Barrow schools
Walney School was selected because it has the leadership, available space and facilities needed to introduce the programme.
The school is part of Furness Education Trust.
Although the UTC Sleeve would be based at Walney School, the facilities and equipment are also expected to support pupils from other schools and members of the wider community.
The programme would be open to students from different backgrounds and would work with local employers, universities and education partners.
Investment linked to Barrow’s future workforce
Team Barrow said improving education, skills and opportunities is central to its ten-year plan for the town.
The partnership brings together the Government, Westmorland and Furness Council and BAE Systems.
Its wider goals include supporting economic growth and ensuring employers can recruit people with the skills they need.
Lord Case, chairman of Team Barrow, said the UTC Sleeve would help young people progress towards apprenticeships, further education and skilled employment.
Furness Education Trust said the project would raise aspirations and create benefits beyond Walney School.
The £1.7 million proposal is one of several education projects Team Barrow plans to introduce across the town’s schools.
