Press release: 19 OCTOBER 2018
UTC Oxfordshire were excited to officially open their state-of-the-art Cryogenics Laboratory today; a first for a UK school.
In planning since April 2015, and brainchild of John Vandore (Trustee of the British Cryogenics Council), the cryogenics laboratory will be used by students to enhance their employer led projects and science curriculum. Ahead of their first project in November students will visit facilities at STFC to find out more about the benefits of, and uses for, cryogenics.
Building on relationships with businesses and organisations the UTC was able to create this unique opportunity - in planning from early on in the school build. Annette Jonathan, science technician led the project, with the support of Quantum Cryogenics, DY Assist, LTI Metaltech, STFC, University of Southampton, British Cryogenics Council, Proactive Gas Safety, Goetze, and AirProducts who all worked to ensure the safe and effective provision of the innovative school cryogenics laboratory.
Although the laboratory was built into the school plans it has taken 3.5 years planning, procurement and testing to ensure the success of this ambitious project.
Ed Vaizey (MP) “Once again the UTC is proving a trailblazer for secondary schools in the UK. I am thrilled that they are opening a first school cryogenics laboratory in the country. This fabulous facility will provide its students with a unique chance to study this important field of science”
Nigel Tipple (CEO OxLEP) – “It is vitally important that education providers and businesses work closely together. The opening of UTC Oxfordshire’s cryogenics laboratory will inspire young people to consider and investigate a career in the cryogenics industry – an industry with global impact at the heart of Oxfordshire”
About UTC Oxfordshire
UTC Oxfordshire opened in September 2015 in Didcot for students aged 14 to 19 living in the catchment area. Our UTC specialises in life sciences, physical sciences and engineering, alongside a broad and balanced curriculum. We benefit from the support of local employers and three leading universities.
Our aspiration is for UTC Oxfordshire to provide scientifically focused and high technology education for a broad catchment area. Our science and engineering specialisms will also draw in young people from further afield, creating a regional centre of excellence. Rated Good in all areas by Ofsted in May 2018.
If you have any questions please contact: Alice Biddiscombe, alice.biddiscombe@utcoxfordshire.org.uk
STFC – UK Impact of Cryogenics
