Roof-top sports pitch eases space constraints for college

Sheffield’s new University Technical College (UTC) is one of just 19 to be funded by the Government and the only one to be given the go-ahead so far in Yorkshire. It will open in September 2013.

The three-storey college, which will cost £8.5m to build, will also incorporate the Victorian Sydney Works in Shoreham Street, with work expected to begin this September, subject to planning permission.

Andrew Cropley, of Sheffield College, which is the sponsor of the new college, said: The design is truly innovative and works sympathetically with what is already on the site.

“It is a prime city centre location and as a result, space is at a premium. We are particularly taken with the roof-top sports pitch, which frees up more vital space for the actual building.”

Sheffield Council led the bid for the UTC funding for the city and its leader Coun Julie Dore said it presented a “great opportunity for employers and young people to work together for the future”.

She added: “It is important that Sheffield can offer skills that employers need.”

UTCs have been set up in a bid to expand vocational courses for young people aged 14 to 19. The Sheffield college will work with local employers including Firth Rixson and Newburgh Engineering.

Potential students or parents interested in how to apply for one of the 600 places on offer at Sheffield UTC should visit its website at www.sheffieldutc.co.uk