Engineering Futures: UTCs and Apprenticeship Success – WMG Academy for Young Engineers
November 26, 2025
University Technical Colleges (UTCs) are proving to be a powerful pipeline for apprenticeships, consistently reporting a significantly higher percentage of leavers transitioning into apprenticeships compared to traditional state schools. This success is exemplified by the WMG Academy for Young Engineers, where a unique curriculum and strong industry partnerships are preparing the next generation of highly skilled technical talent.
National data shows that UTC students are four times more likely than the national average to progress to an apprenticeship, with two-thirds of those being higher or degree level. This remarkable rate is a direct result of the UTC model, which offers a specialist, technical education, often in partnership with universities and local employers.
The WMG Academy for Young Engineers, is a leading example of the UTC ethos in action. Established in partnership with the University of Warwick and major industry sponsors like JLR and National Grid, the Academy’s Ethos is ‘business-like, business-led’. Students aged 14 to 19 follow a STEM-focused curriculum that includes technical qualifications, work experience, and projects set by employers. The aim is to give students both the academic knowledge and the professional ethos required for the modern engineering and digital sectors.
Andrew Kyprianou, Director of Engineering at WMG Academy, highlights the curriculum’s role in creating ‘work-ready’ apprentices. “Our students don’t just study engineering; they live it. Integrating live, industry-led projects into the curriculum is paramount,” says Andrew Kyprianou, who is also a Pearson National Teaching Award winner. “When an employer recruits an apprentice from WMG Academy, they know that young person already understands the demands of the workplace, has professional and technical skills, and is comfortable solving real-world business challenges. This industry readiness makes our students ideal candidates for higher level and degree apprenticeships.”
Supporting students in gaining apprenticeships is Student Destinations and Business Engagement Manager, Paula Carmichael. Paula explains how her role directly impacts upon the students achieving high value destinations. “During frequent classroom interactions with employers, our students gain real insight into recruitment processes, learn essential soft skills, and build an understanding of diverse industries. Our Sixth Formers further enhance their professional profiles by networking and starting their LinkedIn connections, ensuring they are prepared and confident when they go in front of employers, which ultimately results in job offers.”
WMG Trust CEO, Stewart Tait places great emphasis on the role of wider skills in education. “It is our core aim to create conditions in the academy that allow students to thrive and maximise their achievements. At WMG, whilst we place great emphasis on student achievement in terms of qualifications gained, we fully appreciate that achievement in its widest sense should equally focus on a strong foundation of knowledge and skills combined with preparing them for their next steps. Students at WMG academy are regularly exposed to interactions with business partners which showcase business behaviours as well as signposting to them how what they learn in the classroom environment links with the world of employment.”
Success Stories: Voices of WMG Alumni
The ultimate testament to the UTC model is the success of its alumni who are thriving in their apprenticeships:
“The WMG Academy offered valuable support both academically and in the pursuit of my personal goals. The teachers demonstrated authentic commitment to student success, often going beyond expectations to help us achieve our aspirations. Each member of staff was dedicated to ensuring that every student had the opportunity to develop and succeed. Whether personal or professional WMG puts its students first.” Summer, BAE apprentice
“WMG Academy for Young Engineers has been an incredible place to learn and grow. The supportive environment and hands-on approach helped me develop both my technical and professional skills. With access to modern workshops, advanced machinery, and partnerships with companies such as JLR and Tata Motors, I was able to explore a vast range of engineering disciplines. WMG Academy helped build my confidence and soft skills through workplace learning activities, including presentations, interviews, and thanks to my T Level industry placement as well as the support from my mentors, I successfully secured my apprenticeship with WMG, the University of Warwick.” Aymen, WMG apprentice.
“Being a part of WMG Academy played a huge part in me securing my apprenticeship. The focus on real-world learning, industry links and practical projects meant that I felt prepared and confident when applying. The staff genuinely cared about my goals and career aspirations and always provided guidance whether that be through mock interviews, CV and Cover Letter support and workshops or advice on the different pathways available. The academy’s strong connections with employers opened doors I wouldn’t have been able to access otherwise. I am more than grateful for the support as they helped me turn my ambitions into a clear step for my future.” Sam, Siemens apprentice.
