Ron Dearing UTC has expanded its top team, adding additional knowledge and skills to its successful curriculum with five new colleagues.

Zaeem Basit, Sabina Abedin, Al Robinson, Gemma Elliott and Rachel Fussey have a wealth of teaching and leadership experience and will enhance the school’s Creative, Digital and Computing, Engineering and English departments.

Zaeem has joined the school’s Senior Leadership Team as Senior Assistant Principal for Digital and Computing.

The UTC’s Leadership Team has been bolstered by Sabina as Deputy Head of English, Al as Head of Engineering and Gemma and Rachel both as Deputy Head of Creative, based in the UTC’s state-of-the-art STEAM Studios creative hub.

Zaeem, who has worked in education for five years, has relocated from London to Hull to take up the position at Ron Dearing UTC and was previously Director of Learning for T Levels, a two-year qualification for sixth form students, at Leigh UTC in Dartford.

He will lead RDUTC’s whole school digital strategy and oversee the Digital and Computing curriculum pathway, as well as teaching Computer Science.

Zaeem said: “Everyone had such smiley faces during my interview and I knew straight away I wanted to work here.

“I attended the recent A-level and GCSE results days and everyone was very upbeat and excited. I want to have a positive impact on all the RDUTC students and help them to become responsible digital citizens, regardless of whether they are studying digital qualifications.”

 

Sabina was previously Literacy Leader at Kelvin Hall School in Hull and has been teaching for 10 years. She will work with the UTC’s Head of English, Jack Campbell, to lead the department, which has recently expanded to offer additional English A-levels in response to demand from students.

Sabina said: “I’ve heard so many great things about Ron Dearing UTC and I’m really excited to join the team.

“I hope to bring enrichment and my love of reading to the school. Ron Dearing’s links and involvement with Employer Partners is what sets it apart and sets students up for great careers.”

Al, a teacher with 24 years’ experience, previously held the positions of Curriculum Director at Wyke Sixth Form College, and Head of Maths and Head of Engineering at Wilberforce Sixth Form College, both in Hull. He will lead the UTC’s large and expanding Engineering pathway and teach Engineering to both Key Stage 4 and sixth form students.

Al said: “Ron Dearing UTC is really well respected and its links with industry are really positive. The students are very well supported and have excellent university and apprenticeship opportunities available to them. I’m delighted to join the team.”

Gemma, former Key Stage 5 Coordinator in Art and Design at St Mary’s College in Hull, has worked in education for seven years and will work with the Creative Leadership Team to develop the rapidly growing Creative curriculum, focusing particularly on qualifications in Graphic Communications. Gemma will also teach Art and Photography.

She said: “I wanted to work in a college environment which is industry-led and I’m excited to help develop the Creative A-level courses here.

“STEAM Studios is an amazing facility and the space is so flexible, almost like a university-style environment. I’m really looking forward to getting started.”

Rachel was previously Head of Art at Kingswood Academy in Hull and has been teaching for 12 years. She will bring her expertise to developing and teaching the recently introduced A-levels in Fine Art and 3D Design.

Rachel said: “Joining Ron Dearing UTC is an exciting fresh start and the new facilities at STEAM Studios are amazing.

“The positivity from the staff is really impressive and everyone is super friendly. The students are happy to come here, they want to be here and they want to do well and excel.

“I’m looking forward to my career here. I feel part of the Ron Dearing UTC family already.”

 

The new appointments bring the total number of Senior Leaders to 15 alongside 16 in the Leadership Team.

Ron Dearing UTC Principal Sarah Pashley said: “Zaeem, Sabina, Al, Gemma and Rachel are settling in brilliantly and bring a wealth of experience to the table.

“We attracted exceptionally strong applicants for these positions and it’s great we’ve managed to appoint such high-power leaders who are all subject specialists and great teachers. We’re delighted they chose Ron Dearing UTC and can’t wait to see them progress their careers with us.

“They will support our excellent existing team in further developing our unique curriculum, inspiring our students to be the best they can be and enabling them to excel in their studies.”

Our students have expressed their happiness after receiving their GCSE results.

Here’s what they had to share…

Grace Moran celebrated achieving six GCSEs including grade 9 in English Literature and English Language, grade 8 in Biology, Chemistry and Physics, and grade 7 in Maths, as well as a Level 2 Distinction in Creative iMedia.

She will now go onto study English Literature, English Language, Chemistry and Biology in our sixth form.

Grace said; “I worked really hard but was very nervous about collecting my results.

“We had great support from the teachers throughout our exams and this is reflected in our grades. Ron Dearing UTC is an amazing school.”

 

Chloe Barlow achieved seven GCSEs, including grade 9 in Computer Science, Chemistry, Physics and Biology, grade 8 in Maths, and grade 6 in English Language and English Literature, as well as a Level 2 Distinction in Electronic Engineering.

She will now study Physics, Double Engineering and Maths in our sixth form.

Chloe said: “I wasn’t expecting any grade 9s at all, but I got four! I worked so hard, but I was shocked when I opened my envelope. I’m so happy with my results.

“It’s great that Ron Dearing UTC works so closely with the Employer Partners. I spoke to some of them at our school Careers Expo and I’d like to do an engineering apprenticeship in the future.”

 

Gover Gabriel Muzadi achieved an impressive set of GCSE results, including grade 9 in Physics, grade 8 in Chemistry and Maths, grade 7 in Biology and Computer Science and grade 6 in English Language and English Literature, as well as a Level 2 Distinction in Engineering.

He said: “Coming to Ron Dearing UTC is one of the best decisions I’ve made, because it’s tailored to your way of learning. I did lots of revision and thought I would scrape a grade 8 in some things, but not a 9 in Physics.

“The teachers really care about you at Ron Dearing UTC. All of the studying we’ve done is targeted and helps you to build on your strengths and improve on your weaknesses.”

 

Luke Marshall was another of the many students celebrating their impressive GCSE results. He achieved grade 9 in Maths, Chemistry, Physics, grade 8 in Biology, Computer Science and English Language, and a grade 5 in English Literature, as well as a D2 in Electronic Engineering.

Luke said: “It’s been the best opportunity I’ve had so far. I’ve been here for two years, and I’m staying here for sixth form. I’m really happy with my grades. I’m interested in working in genetics in the future, so this is a great start.”

 

Josh Horne achieved grade 9 in English Literature, grade 8 in Chemistry, grade 7 in Maths, English Language, and Physics, and grade 6 in Biology and Computer Science. He was one of many students to achieve 100% attendance for the year too.

“I’m really pleased with how I have done, especially in English Literature. I’ve been here for two years now and I’ve really enjoyed it. I’m looking forward to coming back to the college in September and pressing on.”

 

James Caley achieved grade 9 in Maths and Chemistry, grade 8 in Biology and Physics, grade 7 in Computer Science, grade 6 in English Language and grade 5 in English Literature, as well as a D2 in Electronic Engineering.

James said: “I have done better than I thought I would do. The last two years have gone really well. All the teachers have been great and made me really enjoy learning. I’m coming back for the sixth form next year.

“I’m interested in going down an engineering route, which is why I’ve decided to do A Levels in Maths, Further Maths, Physics and Engineering. I’m really excited to come back after the summer.”

 

Alexis Marley achieved grade 9 in English Language, grade 8 in English Literature, Maths, Biology, Chemistry and Physics, grade seven in Art and Design, and a Level 2 Distinction* in Creative iMedia. She will go on to study English Language, Biology, Graphic Design and Creative iMedia at Wyke Sixth Form College in Hull.

Alexis said: “My teachers gave me papers and information to enable me to revise at home and in school. They set time aside in lessons to help you with tasks and the teaching has been amazing.

“I wasn’t expecting a grade 9 in English Language, so I’m very happy with that. You’re given every opportunity to progress at Ron Dearing UTC.”

 

James Bedford achieved grade 9 in Maths and Computer Science, grade 8 in Biology, Chemistry and Physics, grade 7 in English Language and English Literature, and a D2 in Multi Media.

James said: “I was very nervous picking up my results. I spent the whole car journey, the majority of summer, worrying about what my results might be.

“I’ve done better than expected in the sciences overall. I got what I was hoping for in everything else, which I’m very happy about.

“I’m coming back to Ron Dearing UTC next year, which I believe is the best place for me. At the moment I’m interested in going into something down the Computer Science route in the future. I love Maths, so anything Maths related would be great.”

Superb attendance at Hull’s employer-led school has led to students achieving outstanding GCSE and Level 2 technical results well ahead of the national average.

Ron Dearing University Technical College (UTC) Year 11 students recorded 97% attendance overall in the past school year, with many students not missing a single day.

The attendance is far better than the 88.7% average across the Yorkshire and Humber region and 89% nationally, as recorded by the Department for Education (DfE).

This contributed to the school recording 86.6% of all GCSE grades at 4 or above. This is significantly above the national average of 67.4% announced by the DfE.

In addition, financially disadvantaged students at Ron Dearing UTC outperformed non-disadvantaged learners, with an increased percentage achieving grades 5 to 9 in English and Maths GCSEs, bucking the national trend. This demonstrates the school’s success in supporting students from all backgrounds to succeed.

As well as the 86.6% of all GCSE grades at 4 or above, highlights of Ron Dearing UTC’s GCSE and Level 2 technical results include:

• 80% of students achieved grades 4 to 9 in both English and Maths.
• 62% of students achieved grades 5 to 9 in English and Maths.
• 73% of students achieved grades 5 to 9 in Biology, Chemistry and Physics.
• 86% of students achieved grades 5 to 9 in creative subjects, including Photography.
• 25% of grades in technical specialisms, including Creative iMedia, Digital Technology and Engineering, were Distinction or Distinction*.

 

Ron Dearing UTC Principal Sarah Pashley said: “We’re delighted our Year 11 students have achieved such impressive results, which are so far ahead of the overall national average.

“They have exceeded even our extremely high expectations and we’re so proud of them all.

“As well as working extremely hard over the past two years, another key factor in our students’ success is their exceptionally high attendance. This has been a massive concern nationally since the pandemic.

“While our employer-led curriculum, great facilities and high-quality teaching and support have all played a vital role in enabling students to do so well, there’s no doubt that excellent attendance has also been a big positive factor.

“I’d like to congratulate the students for their tremendous attendance and thank their parents and carers for encouraging them. I also want to pay tribute to our wonderful pastoral team who work so hard to ensure students are happy at Ron Dearing UTC and their attendance is as high as possible.”

The excellent results come just a week after Ron Dearing Year 13 sixth form students recorded impressive A-level and Level 3 technical outcomes, following the expansion of the school last September.

Sarah added: “Nationally, financially disadvantaged students significantly under-perform compared to their non-disadvantaged peers. The latest results show this is not the case at Ron Dearing UTC – proof that we are a fully inclusive school with an educational approach that works for all our students.

“It’s also great to see that our fantastic new science and creative facilities have had such a positive impact on students’ performance. The outstanding results for science and creative subjects show the opportunity to learn in state-of-the art facilities really enhances learning and progress.

“We were delighted with our Year 13 results last week and now we can have a double celebration.”

 

Chloe Barlow, 16, was one of many students celebrating after she achieved an impressive four grade 9s in Computer Science, Chemistry, Physics and Biology as well as a grade 8 in Maths, grades 6 in English Language and English Literature, and a Level 2 Distinction in Electronic Engineering.

She said: “I wasn’t expecting any grade 9s at all, but I got four! I worked so hard, but I was shocked when I opened my envelope. I’m so happy with my results.

“It’s great that Ron Dearing UTC works so closely with the Employer Partners. I spoke to some of them at our school Careers Expo and I’d like to do an engineering apprenticeship in the future.”

 

Fellow student Grace Moran, 16, was also celebrating after receiving and six GCSEs including grade 9 in English Literature and English Language, grade 8 in Biology, Chemistry and Physics, and grade 7 in Maths, as well as a Level 2 Distinction in Creative iMedia.

Grace will now go on to study English Literature, English Language, Chemistry and Biology in Ron Dearing UTC’s sixth form and said: “I worked really hard but was very nervous about collecting my results.

“We had great support from the teachers throughout our exams and this is reflected in our grades. Ron Dearing UTC is an amazing school.”

 

Gover Gabriel Muzadi, also 16, achieved an impressive set of GCSE results, including grade 9 in Physics, grade 8 in Chemistry and Maths, grade 7 in Biology and Computer Science and grade 6 in English Language and English Literature, as well as a Level 2 Distinction in Engineering.

He said: “Coming to Ron Dearing UTC is one of the best decisions I’ve made, because it’s tailored to your way of learning.

“I did lots of revision and thought I would scrape a grade 8 in some things, but not a 9 in Physics.

“The teachers really care about you at Ron Dearing UTC. All of the studying we’ve done is targeted and helps you to build on your strengths and improve on your weaknesses.”

In total, 140 Ron Dearing UTC students are progressing from Year 11 into Year 12, joining the school’s sixth form, the highest number of current students following this path to date. They will be joined by 80 students from other schools.

 

Ron Dearing UTC, in Kingston Square, Hull city centre, caters for students aged 14 to 19. It offers a unique employer-led model of education with a specialist focus on Engineering, Maths, Sciences, Computing, Creative iMedia and English.

Richard Martin, Chair of the Governing Board at Ron Dearing UTC and Non-Executive Director at Major Partner Arco, said: “Once again, Ron Dearing UTC students have achieved excellent GCSE and Level 2 technical results and their excellent attendance has been a big factor in their success.

“This commitment and drive is exactly what employers and universities want to see in their future employees and students and highlights exactly why Ron Dearing UTC’s employer-led curriculum is so successful.

“I’d like to congratulate all the students, parents, carers, teachers and support staff for these truly wonderful results. Outcomes like these are not easily achieved and it is a fantastic team effort. Everyone involved should be very proud of themselves.”

Our sixth form students have spoken of their joy after securing excellent A-level and Level 3 technical results.

Here’s what some of them had to say …

 

Harvey Blackshaw achieved A* grades in Maths and Further Maths, an A in Physics and a Distinction* in Engineering. He will now study Engineering at the University of Cambridge.

Harvey said: “I worked so hard and I’m glad it paid off. I’m thrilled and proud of myself.

“It means so much to me to go to Cambridge and it was amazing when I went for my interview. I didn’t think I would get in, so I’m really excited.

“I’ve loved being a Ron Dearing student and I’ve had so much advice and support from the teachers.”

 

Oliver Moss achieved A grades in Maths and Physics, a B in Chemistry and a Distinction* in Engineering. He has secured a three-year degree apprenticeship in Nuclear Engineering at Rolls Royce.

Oliver said: “I’m really happy. I want to work my way up at Rolls Royce and hopefully work abroad within the industry.

“Being a Ron Dearing UTC student has given me an advantage because of all the support I’ve received.”

 

Scarlet Wedgner achieved a Distinction and Distinction* in Double Engineering and a B in A-level Fine Art. She will now go on to study Curating and Art History at the University of York.

Scarlet said: “I’m so happy I’m going to university. I was so nervous collecting my results.

“The support and attention Ron Dearing staff give you is second to none. Art has always been my passion, which has inspired my university choice.”

 

Madison Harraway achieved a Double Distinction in her Technical Diploma in Creative iMedia and an A grade in A-level Photography. She is going on to study Fashion Business and Manager at Manchester Metropolitan University.

She said: “I’m going to Italy on Sunday, and I wouldn’t have been very happy if I didn’t get the grades I wanted, so now I can relax. I told myself that if I got an A, I’d buy myself a new dress.

“I’m very excited to be going to Manchester. I need to be somewhere creative, so feel like it will be a great place for me.”

 

Lloyd Redshaw achieved a double Distinction* in Engineering and a C in A-level Biology. His grades mean Lloyd has secured his place at the University of Hull to study Forensic Science.

Lloyd said: “I’m really happy with my results. I was really nervous about receiving them, so it was a lovely surprise and I’m relieved that I’ve got what I need to go to the University of Hull.

“Thanks to everyone at Ron Dearing UTC who has helped me to get to this point. I’m looking forward to university life and completing field work as part of my degree.”

 

Olesia Khrypunova achieved an A grade in A-level Maths, B grade in A-level Further Maths, B grade in A-level Physics and a Distinction* in Engineering. She is going to study Aerospace Engineering with a year in industry at the University of Sheffield.

Olesia said: “I joined Ron Dearing in year 12 and have absolutely loved my time here. It’s been so enjoyable and I love my teachers to bits – they have all been so amazing. I’m devastated to be leaving, but equally excited to be going to Sheffield.”

 

Charlie Gibson achieved a Double Distinction in Engineering and will be heading to the University of Lincoln in September to study Architecture.

Charlie said: “Ron Dearing has been a fantastic college. I’ve had the pleasure of being taught by so many great teachers and tutors who have both guided me and pushed me. I am really grateful for that.

“I’m really excited for university. I would like to be a lead architect in the future, helping to create safe designs for future generations.”

 

Jay Rutter achieved A* grades in Maths and Art, and B grades in Further Maths and Physics. He will go on to study Aerospace Engineering at the University of Sheffield.

Jay said “I’m relieved I got the grades to get into university. You’ve got to be happy with two A* grades!

“I have dedicated my life to my studies and it has paid off. I’ve wanted to go to university for as long as I can remember and I’m ecstatic.

 

Kingsley Abel achieved a Distinction in his EAL Certificate in Engineering, and a Distinction Merit in his Cambridge Technical Diploma in Engineering. He will be heading to Sheffield Hallam University in September.

Kingsley said: “I’m really happy and now just buzzing to get to Sheffield. It was my first choice, and I know a few people there already, so it’s the best choice for me.

“A dream of mine is to own my own business modifying cars. Hopefully the degree will go some way to helping me achieve that.”

 

Noah Willacy achieved a Triple Distinction in Computing and has secured an IT Support apprenticeship at Jupiter IT Solutions, one of Ron Dearing UTC’s Major Partners.

Noah said: “I’m very pleased with my results. It was a lot of hard work but I managed to get there in the end.”

 

Lily Knight achieved an A grade in Photography and a Double Distinction* in Creative Digital. She has secured a full-time position as Marketing and Events Coordinator at the award-winning Highfield venue in Driffield.

Lily said: “I’m really happy. I worked really hard and I felt confident collecting my results. It has been a really positive journey for me at Ron Dearing UTC and the staff are so supportive.

“I’m really looking forward to the world of work and learning new things.”

Students at Hull’s university technical college (UTC) are once again celebrating impressive results, following the expansion of the employer-led school.

Sixth form students at Ron Dearing UTC recorded excellent A-level and Level 3 technical results.  More than half of the Year 13 cohort of 143 students are moving on to university, including to prestigious Russel Group universities and the UTC’s partner, the University of Hull.  Others are taking up apprenticeship opportunities with many of the region’s leading businesses.

Last year, the former Central Fire Station in Hull city centre was transformed into the UTC’s state-of-the-art STEAM Studios creative hub and two additional science laboratories were created within the existing school building in nearby Kingston Square.

This increased the school’s capacity from 600 to 800 students from the start of the academic year in September 2023, following funding from the Department for Education’s (DfE) Post-16 Capacity Fund.

Following the expansion, highlights of the UTC’s A-level and Level 3 technical results this year include:

• 41% of all grades are A or A*.
• 91% of grades are A* to C.
• The average grade for A-levels is a B.
• The average grade for Level 3 technical qualifications, including Engineering, Computing and Creative iMedia, is Distinction +.

 

Many of the happy students rang a special celebration bell mounted by Ron Dearing UTC to mark their success. The idea was inspired by the bell rung by gold medal winners at the Paris Olympics, which will be hung in the renovated Notre-Dame Cathedral.

Principal Sarah Pashley said: “We’re thrilled with these results, which have been achieved despite the challenges of increasing our student numbers by a third and bringing on board new staff.

“They show that the exceptional levels of attainment, and the quality of teaching and learning, has been maintained while the school has grown.

“Once again, our Year 13 students have achieved fantastic results in their A-levels and technical qualifications and we’re delighted for them.

“They’ve made the most of all the brilliant opportunities available to them at Ron Dearing UTC and done incredibly well in their coursework and exams. It has been a privilege to have them in our school community over the past few years and we’re really proud of their achievements.

“I’d like to pay tribute to our fantastic team for their hard work, high-quality teaching and pastoral support. Also, thanks to our amazing University, Founding and Employer Partners, whose input makes such a huge difference to our curriculum and the knowledge and skills our students gain.

“Our parents and carers have also been crucial partners in our students’ success, working alongside our team to ensure their children receive the best possible support.”

 

Harvey Blackshaw, 18, rang the celebration bell to celebrate achieving A* grades in Maths and Further Maths, an A in Physics and a Distinction* in Engineering. He will now study Engineering at the University of Cambridge.

Harvey said: “I worked hard and I’m glad it paid off. I’m thrilled and proud of myself.

“It means so much to me to go to Cambridge and it was amazing when I went for my interview. I didn’t think I would get in, so I’m really excited.

“I’ve loved being a Ron Dearing student and I’ve had so much advice and support from the teachers.”

 

Oliver Moss, 18, achieved A grades in Maths and Physics, a B in Chemistry and a Distinction* in Engineering, and has secured a three-year degree apprenticeship in Nuclear Engineering at Rolls Royce.

Oliver said: “I’m really happy. I want to work my way up at Rolls Royce and hopefully work abroad within the industry.

“Being a Ron Dearing UTC student has given me an advantage because of all the support I’ve received. “

 

Madison Harraway, also 18, is going to Manchester Metropolitan University to study Fashion Business and Management, having achieved a Double Distinction in her Technical Diploma in Creative iMedia and an A in A-level Photography.

She said: “I’m going to Italy on Sunday, and I wouldn’t have been very happy if I didn’t get the grades I wanted, so now I can relax. I told myself that if I got an A, I’d buy myself a new dress.

“I’m very excited to be going to Manchester. I need to be somewhere creative, so feel like it will be a great place for me.”

 

Ron Dearing UTC caters for students aged 14 to 19, offering a unique employer-led model of education with a specialist focus on Engineering, Maths, Sciences, Computing, Art and Design and English.

Several of the students who have secured a university place will move on to one of the Russell Group of elite higher education institutions, while those preparing for apprenticeships will work with various leading businesses including the UTC’s Founding and Employer Partners.

This year has also seen an increase in the number of students progressing on to degree studies in the science and healthcare sectors and creative industries following the expansion of the UTC’s curriculum. This includes the introduction of A-levels in Art and Photography, as well as a BTEC course in Applied Science.

Richard Martin, Chair of the Governing Board at Ron Dearing UTC and Non-Executive Director at Major Partner Arco, said: “Ron Dearing UTC’s A-level and Level 3 technical results continue to impress me every year.

“The students’ hard work, drive and determination has once again paid off, supported by the outstanding UTC team, University, Founding and Employer Partners, and their parents and carers.

“It has been wonderful to watch the UTC expand and continue to deliver exceptional results. The students are moving on to very exciting destinations and their time at Ron Dearing UTC has undoubtedly set them up for success.”

• Students who would like to join Ron Dearing UTC in Year 10 or Year 12 in September 2025 are invited to attend one of three planned open events on October 3, November 7 and January 9. For more information, and to book a place, go to rondearingutc.com/openevents

Sixth form students at Ron Dearing UTC pushed themselves to the limit as part of two major trekking expeditions.

Eleven Year 12 and Year 13 Computing students took part in a five-day Outward Bound adventure course in Howtown in the Lake District to increase their confidence and improve employability skills such as leadership, teamwork, resilience and communication.

The challenge, near Ullswater, saw them complete a jog and dip into the lake, orienteering, map skills, a gorge scramble and various team challenges.

They then travelled to Glenridding where they walked eight miles to Angle Tarn and camped overnight, cooking their own meal and setting up their tents, before returning to Howtown.

Their final challenge included mountain orienteering to collect stamps which could be exchanged for materials and equipment to build a raft for another challenge. The students built the rafts the following day before returning home.

Jason White, Head of Computing at Ron Dearing UTC, and Robbie Olsen, Teacher of Computing at the school, accompanied the students on the challenge.

Jason said: “All of our Computing students are offered the chance to join this challenge, which helps develop their personal and professional skills and their resilience.

“The 11 students did absolutely brilliantly. They persevered, helped and supported each other to the very end.

“They really came out of their shells and those who are often very quiet took the lead on some activities, encouraging the other students along the way.”

In a separate physical challenge, two Year 12 students and three Year 10s completed the main Duke of Edinburgh (DofE) expedition which contributes towards their bronze DofE Award.

The programme aims to empower young people aged 14 to 24 while building confidence and resilience, and sees hundreds of thousands of young people take part every year.

The students walked nine miles from Millington in the Yorkshire Wolds to Fridaythorpe, which they have trained for throughout the year including a walk around Welton, East Yorkshire.

They camped overnight, cooking their own meals, before walking a further nine miles to Wharram   Percy the following day, accompanied by Jason and Kirsten Hopper – a Science Teacher at RDUTC — throughout the challenge.

All five students carried up to 14kg of kit in their rucksacks in difficult rainy weather. Impressively, two of the students completed both the Outward Bound and DofE challenges consecutively.

Jason added: “All the students did brilliantly and successfully completed the expedition, which means they will achieve the award by the end of the year.

“As well as the expedition, the DofE Award includes other elements like volunteering, developing a new skill and improving fitness levels.

“The skills the students gain from challenges like this are very highly regarded by employers. I’m  very proud of all our students for their achievements.

Year 12 student Hermione Cook, 17, who completed the Outward Bound and DofE challenges, said: “I’ve been able to refine a lot of my personal skills such as communication, teamwork and leadership while completing challenging but fun outdoor activities. I really stepped out of my comfort zone.”

Ron Dearing UTC students celebrated the end of the academic year with a fun-filled cultural festival.

RonFest returned for a second consecutive year, enabling students to experience a range of events which encouraged them to embrace new opportunities and soak up culture.

Six zones were set up to offer gaming, music, Formula 1 (F1), E-sports, crafts and survival activities, and students were encouraged to register for their preferred activities.

 

RonFest is part of the school’s Cultural Capital programme to promote culture and creativity, broaden students’ experiences and develop their ‘personal brand’ which will help them achieve success in the competitive university and apprenticeship markets.

The gaming zone included the history and evolution of gaming and various retro arcade games to play on, from vintage to modern day.

The music zone saw performances from a jazz funk band, guitar try-outs, attendance from the Beats Bus team, tips on how to structure songs, rap and DJ, and a vocal clinic.

Meanwhile, the survival zone included an escape room, workshops on how to build models to escape flooding, and survival-themed board games, run by the school’s Science department.

The F1 in Schools zone focused on reaction times, F1 races across the world and what it takes to be an F1 driver.

Students in the E-sports zone took part in two online tournaments.

Finally, the craft zone encouraged students to express themselves through a wide range of mediums including mural painting, weaving, photography, ceramics and jewellery-making.

Chris Berry, Assistant Principal at Ron Dearing UTC, said: “The overall aim was to encourage the students to try something new and give it a go.

“We want our students to be open to new experiences and discover new interests, and we’re already looking forward to next year.”

Students also enjoyed street food on offer throughout the day, adding to the RonFest experience.

Year 10 student Connor Paddison, who enjoyed working on Hull Maritime-inspired art in the craft zone at RonFest, said: “I don’t study art and I’ve never done anything like this before but I loved it.

“We mixed lots of different colours of acrylic paint, PVA glue and water before dropping it onto a canvas and moving it around.

“My piece is inspired by Hull Docks and the fishing industry. I never thought it would be so easy to make such a cool painting.”

Fellow Year 10 student Tilly Culkin said: “I really enjoyed the RonFest craft zone and made a ceramic plant pot to hang on a wall.

“I study GCSE Art and I love working with clay but I’ve never made anything as intricate as this.”

Year 10 student Cohen Burr, who enjoyed the music zone, said: “This is the first time I’ve done any mixing, which involves combining two different tracks together. It’s fun but complex and you have to concentrate hard to count the beats in each track to match them properly. I really enjoyed it.”

Leading businesses have offered Ron Dearing UTC students work experience placements this summer, boosting their confidence and enabling them to immerse themselves in the workplace.

A total of 21 businesses from across the region have offered 31 different “industry experiences” to 90 Year 12 students as they consider their options and plan for their exciting futures.

A range of additional businesses have already welcomed a further 14 Year 10, 12 and 13 students into medical, social care, veterinary, theatre, civil engineering, aerospace and electric motorsport placements this year.

This is the highest number of students and businesses involved in Ron Dearing UTC’s work experience programme since the school’s inception in 2017.

More than 20 students will also complete the three day First Aid at Work course during the summer holidays.

Most students applied for their work experience placements with CVs and covering letters before attending an interview, giving them vital job application and interview experience.  They also received important feedback from the employers to help them improve their applications and interview techniques.

Prior to applying for the work experience placements, students took part in mock interview sessions led by Yvonne Moir from one of Ron Dearing’s Founding Partners, Spencer Group, supported by representatives from the UTC’s Employer Partners.

Lisa Regan, Assistant Principal – Professionalism at Ron Dearing UTC, said: “We’re thrilled with the response from students and businesses for this year’s work experience programme.  This is the best it has ever been.

“The goal is to help our students discover their interests and ambitions while companies get to know them and hopefully build on those relationships for potential future employment or apprenticeship opportunities.

“We have excellent students and many of the employers have already met some of them at our recent Careers Expo, so they have them on their radar for next year’s recruitment drive.

“There are so many benefits to our students being in the workplace. It helps to inform their decisions moving forward and they grow in confidence.

“It’s a pleasure to support our students in finding the right work experience placement for them.  Some have even sourced their own, which is a very positive step.”

Year 12 student Daniel Bond, 17, who is studying Double Engineering at Ron Dearing UTC, has been offered a five-day work experience placement at Porsche Centre Hull, a Ron Dearing UTC Major Partner and F1 in Schools challenge Sustainability Partner.

Daniel said: “I’ve always been a fan of Formula 1 and Porsche cars and I’m really excited about the opportunity.

“I’d like to work in the car or motorsport industry and hopefully secure an apprenticeship when I leave Ron Dearing UTC. The school has so many networks, connections and partnerships with great companies, which is a very good support for students.”

 

Fellow Year 12 student Emily Barton, 17, who is studying Photography, 3D Design and Graphic Design at Ron Dearing UTC, is looking forward to a five-day work experience placement at Hull’s Centre for Digital Innovation (C4DI), another of the school’s Major Partners.

Emily said: “I’m looking forward to being hands-on and learning more software skills during my work experience placement.

“I’d like a creative apprenticeship when I leave Ron Dearing UTC and the work experience application process has helped us to get ready for the workplace environment.”

 

The companies which have offered “industry experience” work placements to Ron Dearing UTC students this summer are:

Bluestorm, Bonus Electrical, C4DI, CATCH, Cranswick Country Foods, Ideal Heating, J&CR Wood, Jupiter IT Solutions, KCOM, Klaafe, Litmus Mockups, Pagabo, Porsche Centre Hull, Quickline Communications, Ridings Consulting Engineers, Sewell Group, Shared Agenda, Smailes Goldie, Smith+Nephew, Spencer Group and Wood.

Additional placements which have already been completed by students in Year 10, 12 and 13 this year include:

Aldgate Vets, BAE Systems, Bridlington Spa, City Health Care Partnerships (CHCP), East Riding of Yorkshire Council, Haven Vets, Holy Name Care Home and Hull University Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust.

Ron Dearing UTC students have been recognised in a special awards ceremony to celebrate their outstanding achievements and qualities.

Year 10 and Year 12 students were invited to the employer-led school’s Celebration of Achievement evening to receive their awards in front of invited guests, including the UTC’s Founding Partners, Patron Alan Johnson and Chair of Governors Richard Martin.

Students in Year 10 were recognised with awards for achievement and productivity in their core subjects (English, Maths and Sciences) and options subjects (Digital, Creative and Engineering).

Awards were also presented for students demonstrating positive professional values and behaviours.

 

Student Kieron Staniforth was presented with the Employability Skills Awards for achieving the most credits for his positive work ethic and his high standards of professional behaviour.

 

Fellow students Oliver Maskell, Liam Ellis and Oliver Thompson won the Ron Dearing UTC Community Hero Award and a Chief Constable’s Coin for assisting a member of the public who was in extreme distress and danger.

The boys flagged down members of the public and contacted the police and ambulance service for assistance. Due to their intervention, the individual was helped to safety and has been signposted to the appropriate support.

The awards were presented to Oliver, Liam and Oliver by Assistant Chief Constable of Humberside Police Lisa Hogan and Police Community Support Officer (PCSO) Dawn Brown.

Year 12 awards were presented to students for their achievement and productivity in Maths, English, Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Creative, Digital and Engineering subjects.

Jay Andrews won Engineer of the Year, Hermione Cook and Kai Bulliment both won Digital Talent of the Year, and Beth Mason was presented with the Creative Talent of the Year award for the second time.

The UTC’s Founding Partners also chose winners for their own awards:

Will Pinder – The University of Hull Award for Outstanding Academic Achievement

The judges described Will as “a phenomenal student” who is excelling in his subjects and is the first Ron Dearing student to complete A-level Maths in one year.

Kai Bulliment  – The KCOM Award for Best Communicator

Among many positive attributes, Kai was praised for representing and promoting Ron Dearing UTC at the school’s open events, as well as speaking eloquently about the school with passion to governors, Employer Partners and the media.

Finlay Hopper – The Reckitt Award for Inspirational Leadership

The judges complimented Finlay on “actively supporting his peers with their independent study,” motivating them and offering advice and guidance which has resulted in both Fin and his peers excelling in their studies. They also said Finlay “leads by example” on the football pitch in his spare time, winning awards for his leadership.

Milena Trubilina, George Campbell-Hamilton and Ethan Bird – The Siemens Gamesa Award for Resilience

Milena wrote her own words, which were read out at the awards evening. She described her experience of fleeing her home country of Ukraine with her family as bombs fell. She has excelled in her studies at Ron Dearing UTC since arriving in Hull.

George impressed the judges by successfully completing his studies despite having major surgery earlier this year. He is part of the United Nations Education, Scientific and Cultural Organisation and is an Ambassador for the Children’s International Summer Village, which sees him travel abroad to educate children on diversity and conflict resolution.

Ethan was praised for refusing to allow his disability to stand in his way and immersing himself in all aspects of Ron Dearing UTC life. The judges loved his “positive attitude and steely determination.”

 

Charles Trice – The Smith+Nephew Award for Innovation

The judges said Charles is a “standout student” who “continually inspires his peers and teachers with his innovative ideas.” They noted his work on improving the capabilities a basic 3D printer and designing and building a motorbike using an old bike and lawnmower engine, using his 3D printer to produce parts.

Jasper Charlesworth – The Spencer Group Award for Outstanding Contribution to the Community

The judges were highly impressed with Jasper’s commitment to worthy causes and the community, including supporting the Freddie’s Friends charity in Hull, volunteering as a National Trail Ranger, mentoring fellow UTC students and supporting a young girl with a rare genetic condition.

The Alan Johnson Award for Young Advocate of the Year was presented to Matthew Bestley. Matthew was described as “a whirlwind of enthusiasm and energy” and an expert in pottery within the UTC’s STEAM Studios creative hub.

He was praised for being a superb role model who is an enthusiastic champion of the UTC’s Creative pathway and STEAM Studios.

The transformation of Hull’s former central fire station into a new creative studio for Ron Dearing University Technical College (UTC) has been recognised at a prestigious awards ceremony.

The project by Sewell Construction to refurbish the disused fire station into a state-of-the-art sustainable learning space was the winner of the Regeneration and Retrofit category at the Constructing Excellence Yorkshire and Humber Awards.

The project then went on to take home the overall ‘Best of the Best’ prize as the top winner out of all projects showcased on the night, being commended for its sympathetic yet sustainable conversion of the building into a modern education facility.

The STEAM Studios are a dedicated centre for creativity, opened by Ron Dearing UTC in September 2023. The facility contains a gallery and exhibition space, 2D and 3D art studios, a photography studio and a sixth form independent study centre, as well as being used to educate engineering students about opportunities in green skills.

The judges were impressed by the long-term view the refurbishment took towards the carbon footprint of the studio, ensuring the fabric of the building was upgraded so the site will use less energy to heat in future, helping the UTC on its journey to net zero.

The STEAM Studios are also futureproofed for new innovations in green technology, with the building made connection-ready for the new Hull District Heating Network.

The project is also being used to help the UTC’s students learn new skills, with Sewell Construction and Ron Dearing UTC now working in partnership to embed the STEAM Studios refurbishment into the curriculum so students can learn about how decarbonisation and the environment are integral to good construction practices.

Chris Soper, Managing Director of Sewell Construction said:

“The STEAM Studios project was fantastic to work on, as the team at the UTC were really receptive to our ideas about how to make the building as sustainable as possible. Instead of trying to chase quick wins, they were happy to work with us to look a bit differently at the refurbishment, enabling us to support their long term journey to net zero. It’s vital for the sustainability of our cities that we learn to work with existing buildings to breathe new life into them and make them more efficient, instead of simply knocking them down and building anew.

“The STEAM Studios are now a fantastic new facility for the UTC, not only giving students a space to express their creativity, but also enabling students to learn from a real life case study about how careers in green skills can combine design, creativity and technical knowledge.”

Sarah Pashley, Principal at Ron Dearing UTC said:

“The STEAM Studios project has enabled Ron Dearing UTC to offer an additional 200 student places, which is fantastic. STEAM Studios provides a beautiful, purpose-designed facility for students studying our creative subjects and those studying Renewables modules on our Engineering qualifications. The design and build process was a wonderful opportunity for our students to learn about sustainable construction practices and we are very grateful to Sewell Construction for involving them in this process. We are also extremely grateful to Orsted for their sponsorship which provided the additional funding we needed to upgrade the fabric of the building to ensure its energy efficiency.“

The Sewell Construction team will now go on to the UK finals of the awards in November, where they’ll be hoping to repeat their success at a national level.

Sewell Construction, who have their headquarters in Hull, deliver a range of construction projects across the Yorkshire and Humber region. Part of the larger Sewell Group, the company works on design, build, refurbishment and retrofit schemes, and recent projects have included the refurbishment of the Endeavour building for Hull Trinity House Academy, the creation of new T-Level facilities at Bradford College, the construction of West Hull health Hub and the refurbishment of The Edge fitness centre at the University of Leeds.

Last year, the company became part employee-owned, with all staff becoming co-owners in the business, which gives them a greater say in how the business is run.