Leaders in education Lord Baker and Matthew Coffey visit The Leigh UTC

Lord Baker in workshop

On Friday, October 6th, 2023, The Leigh UTC had the distinct honour of hosting two distinguished leaders in the field of education: Lord Kenneth Baker and Matthew Coffey. The visit provided an opportunity for them to tour our state-of-the-art facilities, experience our innovative learning environment, and engage with our talented students.

Lord Kenneth Baker, a prominent figure in British politics and education, has been a driving force in the development of University Technical Colleges (UTCs). His vision for vocational education has had a profound impact on the landscape of technical and vocational learning in the UK.

Matthew Coffey, Chief Operating Officer at Ofsted, plays a vital role in shaping higher education in the United Kingdom. His expertise and leadership have been instrumental in ensuring that students have access to high-quality education and opportunities.

During their visit to The Leigh UTC, the distinguished guests were given a guided tour of our impressive buildings, which boast cutting-edge facilities dedicated to science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) subjects. They had the opportunity to witness firsthand the exceptional learning experiences our students enjoy, gaining insights into how The Leigh UTC prepares young people for careers in the STEM fields.

In addition to touring the facilities, Lord Baker and Matthew Coffey engaged in meaningful discussions with our students, staff and leaders. They were impressed by the passion, enthusiasm, and knowledge demonstrated by all stakeholders, as well as their deep commitment to pursuing and promoting careers in STEM disciplines.

Commenting on the visit, Leigh UTC Principal Kevin Watson said, “We were truly honoured to host Lord Baker and Matthew Coffey. Their visit underscores the importance of technical and vocational education in the UK. We are proud to provide a cutting-edge learning environment that equips our students with the skills and knowledge needed to excel in STEM fields.”

The Leigh UTC remains committed to delivering excellence in education and preparing students for successful careers in STEM disciplines. The visit from Lord Kenneth Baker and Matthew Coffey serves as a testament to our dedication to fostering innovation and excellence in technical education.