To help groups interested in opening a UTC, the Department for Education (DfE) will publish guidance this autumn on the application process.

The guidance will include information on:

• what DfE expects in an application to establish a UTC
• what applicants need to know before applying
• how to complete and submit an application
• who to contact for help with an application

Applicants are strongly encouraged to discuss their application with the Baker Dearing Educational Trust (BDT), which will be able to offer advice and support. BDT is funded by DfE to help applicant groups prepare.

Since 2010 the government has opened 30 UTCs, with 31 more in development. UTCs are schools developed in partnership with universities and employers that prepare young people for careers in industries such as engineering and science. There are currently over 500 national and international employers involved in UTCs, including Hitachi Rail Europe, Jaguar Land Rover, and Bentley.