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    • STEAM Curriculum

    Our STEM Curriculum 

    At UTC Plymouth, we offer a streamlined and purpose-led curriculum designed to give students the best possible start in high-demand, industry-specific careers. Rather than offering a broad mix of subjects, as a UTC we are designed to feed the workforce pipeline of the future. In the City of Plymouth, this is STEM: Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics. 

    Building Strong Foundations 

    From the very beginning, students engage with core academic subjects such as Maths, English, and Science, alongside specialist pathways like Engineering, Computer Science, and Digital Technology. This focused approach ensures that every subject contributes directly to their professional development and long-term ambitions. 

    As students progress into Key Stages 4 and 5, they begin to tailor their learning even further, choosing qualifications that align with their career goals. By focusing on what really matters, UTC Plymouth provides clarity, direction and the confidence to excel academically and step boldly into the world of work. 

    Our Curriculum Principles 

    • Academic Excellence We prioritise a rigorous academic foundation, ensuring students develop the critical thinking and problem-solving skills essential for success in higher education and employment. 

    • Holistic Development Beyond academics, we nurture well-rounded individuals by fostering personal growth, resilience and interpersonal skills that prepare students for life as well as work. 

    • Industry Alignment Our curriculum is designed in collaboration with leading industry partners, giving students access to real-world experiences, projects and skills that reflect current and future workforce demands. 

    95% Classroom, 5% Practical 

    At UTC Plymouth, our ethos is built on academic excellence, holistic development and industry alignment, always with a clear focus: the classroom comes first. 

    We are not a “hands-on” school in the traditional sense. While we offer outstanding resources and access to industry-standard equipment, we believe that true success begins with academic learning. Classroom-based study is where students develop subject mastery, critical thinking and problem-solving skills, the essential foundations for any practical or professional application later on. 

    By combining rigorous academic study with carefully chosen practical experiences, we ensure our students are not only knowledgeable and skilled but also industry-ready and prepared to thrive in the careers of tomorrow. 

    Is UTC Plymouth Right for You? 

    At UTC Plymouth, we are proud to offer a streamlined, purpose-led curriculum focused on STEM: Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics. Everything we do is designed to prepare students for high-demand, industry-specific careers in these fields. 

    Because of this, it’s important to be transparent: if you are not interested in pursuing a pathway linked to STEAM subjects, then UTC Plymouth may not be the right school for you. We don’t try to be all things to all people-we specialise and we are proud of that. 

    Our focused approach allows us to give students the clarity, direction and skills they need to excel in industries where innovation, creativity, and technology are at the forefront. By choosing UTC Plymouth, you are choosing a school that is dedicated to helping you succeed in these areas. 

    Please take time to look carefully at the courses we offer and consider whether they align with your interests and ambitions. For more information about our curriculum and pathways, see here:  

    Courses

    Women in STEAM 

    The representation of women in STEAM (particularly in engineering) has remained low for many years. While progress is being made, women are still underrepresented across many technical fields. However, based on data trends from 2009–2019, it is estimated that by 2030 women will make up nearly 30% of the STEAM workforce. 

    Our employer partners are committed to encouraging female applicants but they continue to see fewer applications from women than they need to fulfil their diversity targets. This highlights the importance of schools like UTC Plymouth in inspiring and preparing more young women to pursue careers in STEAM. 

    Our Commitment at UTC Plymouth 

    At UTC Plymouth, we recognise the vital importance of increasing female representation in the workforce. This commitment is embedded deeply within our culture. 

    • Our Headteacher, Jo Ware, is a leading example of female leadership in education. 

    • We actively encourage female students to see themselves as future engineers, scientists, designers and innovators. 

    Celebrating Women in STEAM 

    Historically, women have faced numerous barriers to entering STEAM fields, yet their contributions have been instrumental for centuries. From Ada Lovelace, often considered the first computer programmer, to Mary Jackson, one of NASA’s “Hidden Figures” who helped shape space exploration, women have made remarkable strides in science and engineering. 

    By recognising these achievements and showcasing modern role models, we aim to ensure that young women at UTC Plymouth can see themselves reflected in the industries they aspire to join. 

    Inspiring the Future 

    By empowering women and providing them with the tools, support, and role models they need, we can foster innovation, creativity, and progress in STEAM for generations to come. 

    At UTC Plymouth, we are proud to be part of this movement, helping to break down barriers, challenge stereotypes, and inspire the next generation of female leaders in STEAM. 

    Add some infographics from here: https://www.canva.com/design/DAGbboRzWMs/3qk36prFLZ1OYFLsQIoKhA/edit?utm_content=DAGbboRzWMs&utm_campaign=designshare&utm_medium=link2&utm_source=sharebutton 

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