Ron Dearing UTC is a university technical college located in Hull, providing an outstanding educational experience for its pupils. The school opened in September 2017 and has quickly established itself as a leader in education, receiving an overall effectiveness rating of outstanding in its first inspection. The quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and sixth-form provision have all been rated as outstanding. The school has developed a unique curriculum that integrates significant input from industry partners, allowing pupils to engage in work-related projects that address real-world problems. This hands-on approach enhances learning and helps students retain knowledge more effectively.
Pupils at Ron Dearing UTC demonstrate exemplary behaviour and professionalism. They report high levels of satisfaction with their school experience, feeling safe and supported by staff who genuinely care about their well-being. The positive relationships between pupils and staff foster a collaborative and respectful environment. The school emphasizes a business-like atmosphere, preparing students for the world of work through extensive links with local and national industries. This connection not only enriches the curriculum but also equips pupils with essential employability skills.
The school has a strong track record of ensuring that all pupils secure pathways to further education or employment upon graduation. Every pupil has successfully transitioned to apprenticeships, university, or alternative employment since the school’s inception. The curriculum is designed to build a solid foundation of knowledge, enabling pupils to progress to more complex concepts with confidence. Teachers are knowledgeable and passionate about their subjects, providing effective support for students with special educational needs and disabilities.
Leadership at Ron Dearing UTC is characterized by commitment and enthusiasm. The principal and senior leaders prioritize staff well-being and work-life balance, which contributes to high staff morale. Leaders actively seek opportunities to alleviate the workload on teachers, such as outsourcing the marking of mock examinations. Governance is also outstanding, with trustees and governors maintaining a thorough understanding of the school’s operations and holding leaders accountable for the ambitious curriculum that supports pupils in achieving their career goals.
Attendance rates at the school are significantly higher than the national average, with very few pupils experiencing persistent absence. The school has not permanently excluded any pupils since opening, reflecting the high expectations set by leaders for professional and mature behaviour. The personal development curriculum is well-structured, focusing on developing employability skills and providing a range of enrichment activities. Participation in clubs and extracurricular activities is high, further enhancing the educational experience.
In the sixth form, students benefit from a specialized curriculum that includes digital media and engineering technologies. The school’s A-level outcomes place it among the top 1% of schools nationally, demonstrating the effectiveness of its educational approach. All sixth-form students engage in work experience, gaining valuable insights into the application process for sought-after positions.
The safeguarding arrangements at Ron Dearing UTC are effective, with a well-led safeguarding curriculum that educates pupils about potential risks. Staff are vigilant in reporting concerns, and strong links with external agencies ensure that pupils receive necessary support. Overall, Ron Dearing UTC exemplifies excellence in education, providing a nurturing and challenging environment that prepares pupils for future success.
