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Find Your Future

Year 10 Prospectus

UTCN Open Events Year 10 Open Evening 01/10/2026

Options Evening 25/02/2027

Our Vision Developing the next generation of STEM professionals.

Find Your Future Welcome to University Technical College, Norfolk Welcome to University Technical College Norfolk (UTCN), where innovation meets education in a dynamic and specialised learning environment. Easily accessible from Norwich city centre, our institution is dedicated to fostering the next generation of skilled professionals, equipped with the knowledge, practical skills, and entrepreneurial mindset essential for success in today’s rapidly evolving industries. Our Ofsted inspection in January 2025 highlighted a number of outstanding areas of the school, with the Ofsted report included the following comments: • ‘University Technical College Norfolk (UTCN) prepares its pupils exceptionally well for employment in the fields of science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM).’

At UTCN, we blend academic excellence with real-world application, offering students a unique opportunity to explore STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) subjects alongside technical training, all within a supportive and collaborative community.

At UTCN we offer a unique curriculum which is underpinned by these three main areas:

Examinations • Excellent teaching and learning leading to exceptional outcomes. • A curriculum that focuses on science, technology, engineering and mathematics along with a range of other subjects. • Online Dynamic Progress Reporting (DPR) for students to understand their priorities and steer their own learning to make excellent progress.

• ‘Pupils participate in an extensive range of encounters with employers.’

Employability

• ‘The school has very high expectations of how well all pupils can achieve. As a result, pupils often achieve highly.’

• Daily preparation for the world of work in every interaction, building habits today’s employers are looking for.

• ‘Pupils become increasingly confident and resilient learners.’ • ‘Many students progress into high level and degree apprenticeships and gain employment in leading engineering companies.’ • ‘Pupils are highly self-motivated. They are determined to be the best they can be.’ • ‘Lessons are a haven of calm.’ UTCN have achieved some of its best GCSE results ever: • Basics (English & Maths) 9-4

79%

• Basics (English & Maths) 9-5

58%

• Engineering 9-4 equivalent

64%

Our students have also performed well in achieving grades 9-7 with some excellent results in the following subjects: • Biology – 64% • Chemistry – 57% • English – 24%

• Excellent pastoral support to live our core values of excellence, professionalism, respect and care.

Experience • A pathway for students to ‘ Find their Future’ from the very beginning of their time with us. • Real life industry experience with regional and national employers including employer encounters, industry visits and work experience. • Sponsorship from a range of employers and University of East Anglia. I look forward to meeting you at one of our open days or school tours. Kind regards, Luke Moralee Headteacher

• Maths – 24% • Physics – 64% • Computer Science – 16%

10 Things to Know About UTCN 1. STEM Focus

6. Four-Year Programme

UTCN is dedicated to the disciplines of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), offering a curriculum that emphasises these critical areas.

UTCN offers a comprehensive 4-year education programme, allowing students to continue their studies into the sixth form and gain deeper knowledge and experience.

2. High Standards

7. Enrichment Opportunities

At UTCN, we uphold high standards of behaviour and academic performance, fostering a disciplined and respectful learning environment.

We provide numerous extra-curricular activities and enrichment opportunities, enabling students to develop new skills and interests outside the classroom.

3. Addressing Local Skills Gaps

8. Unique School Days

We collaborate closely with local employers to address skills gaps in the community, ensuring our students are equipped with relevant and in-demand skills.

4. Diverse Qualiﬁcations Our educational offerings include GCSEs as well as a range of vocational qualifications, providing students with diverse pathways to success.

Our schedule includes longer teaching days from Tuesday to Thursday, with an earlier finish on Mondays and Fridays, optimising learning time while offering flexibility.

9. Employability Skills UTCN places a strong emphasis on preparing students for their future careers by developing key employability skills such as teamwork, leadership, and problem-solving.

5. Passion for Subjects

10. Close Employer Partnerships

Our enthusiasm for STEM subjects is contagious, and we strive to instil a similar passion in our students, making learning both enjoyable and engaging.

Our strong relationships with local employers not only help bridge the skills gap but also offer students real-world insights and opportunities for future employment.

Cutting Edge Facilities University Technical College Norfolk is equipped to the highest standards and contains specialist equipment, including £1.5m of recent investment for the Engineering and Science Facilities. Our equipment was procured after careful liaison with local employers to ensure that students are ‘work-ready’ when they leave us. With these facilities, excellent teaching and expert industry partnerships, we strive to empower our students to excel, innovate, and make a meaningful impact in their chosen ﬁelds.

Employer supporters

Where do our students go when they leave UTCN? A large proportion of our students choose to either enrol on our T Level or A Level plus pathway or secure an apprenticeship with one of our employer partners – many of which are very well paid and oﬀer excellent career progression.

Apprenticeships: Anglian Water Audi Aviva Balfour Beatty BAE BBC BF1 Systems BMW British Army British Sugar Canham Consulting Clearwater Dyson EDF Electronics Tech Farrans Construction Glazing Vision Harford Attachments Ltd Hewlett Packard Jaguar Land Rover

James Fisher Lowestoft KLM Lawrence & Scott Lotus Marsh Mercedes-Benz AMG Morgan Sindall MSI Defence System Ltd. National Grid NHS Norfolk Property Services (NPS) Opito – Skills for Oil and Gas R.G Carter Robinson’s RAF Renvale Royal Navy Scottish Power Seajacks Tarmac Warren Services

Courses and Options Option Subjects The curriculum at UTCN is designed in conjunction with local and national employers and universities to ensure our students develop the right skills for the future. It is divided into three parts: • The core curriculum which is compulsory for everyone • Options which they can choose from • Extra-curricular activities are timetabled in September and further supplement the curriculum. As a key part of our role to prepare students for the future, work experience is an essential element. Therefore, in addition to the core programme, all students will participate in a week of work experience in May 2027.

Core Curriculum Subjects

Option Subjects

Extra Curricular Activities

All students will study ALL of the following subjects:

Students can choose three subjects from this list:

Students will be given a choice of extra curricular subjects such as:

GCSE English Language

GCSE Triple Award Science

Duke of Edinburgh

GCSE English Literature

GCSE Business Studies

F1 in Schools

GCSE Mathematics

GCSE Computer Science

Fusion 360 - Design

GCSE Combined Science Double Award

GCSE History

Machining

GCSE Art

Green Power

GCSE Sociology

Vechicle Maintenance

GCSE Geography

Blood Bowl - Strategy Game

Pearson BTEC Health and Social Care

Warhammer

Physical Education Personal, Social, Health and Economic WJEC Engineering

Technical Award in Health and Fitness GCSE Further Maths

UTCN Book Club Lexia Club CREST Award

Core Curriculum Examining Body: AQA

GCSE English Language GCSE English Literature What does the course cover? In English Language, students will study both fiction and non-fiction from the 19th, 20th and 21st centuries, including creative writing elements for both. In English Literature, they will read a variety of texts including Shakespeare, a modern play, a nineteenth century novel and poetry.

Our set texts are: • ‘Macbeth’ by William Shakespeare • ‘The Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde’ by Robert Louis Stevenson • ‘An Inspector Calls’ by JB Priestley • Power and Conflict Poetry

What skills will the course help students to develop? Students will learn how to write fiction and non-fiction precisely, accurately and effectively and will develop their reading skills. The spoken language element of the course will help them to develop their formal presentation skills.

How is the course assessed? There are two qualifications in English – English Language and English Literature. Each qualification is assessed through two external examinations at the end of the course.

What equipment do students need for the course? There is no specialist equipment but students should acquire their own copies of the texts and a dictionary, if possible, to aid their learning. Students should regularly borrow books from the library or bring one from home.

What other opportunities will be on offer for this subject? There are regular events in English including theatre trips, author visits and reading clubs which are open to all students.

What do students who study this course go on to do? As a core subject, skills gained in English help with all areas of study and work. Students who enjoy studying English can go on to study it further at A Level and it helps with all subjects that have a written component. A minimum grade 4 or 5 in English is the entry requirement for most level 3 pathways depending on the institution.

Core Curriculum Examining Body: Edexcel (9-1)

GCSE Mathematics What does the course cover?

How is the course assessed?

GCSE Mathematics is about much more than just passing an exam; it trains your brain to think logically, spot patterns, and solve complex problems. Over the next two years, you will build on your current skills and dive deeper into five core areas:

You will sit your exams at the end of Year 11 at either the Foundation Tier (grades 5–1) or the Higher Tier (grades 9–4).

• Number: Mastering the building blocks of mathematics, from fractions and percentages to indices and standard form.

• Paper 1: Non-Calculator (1 hour 30 mins | 80 marks)

• Algebra: Learning the language of mathematics by solving intricate equations, graphing functions, and mastering sequences.

What equipment do you need?

• Ratio, Proportion and Rates of Change: Understanding how different quantities relate to each other—essential for everything from scaling recipes to calculating speed and compound interest. • Geometry and Measure: Exploring shapes, angles, trigonometry, and formulas for area and volume to understand the physical space around us. • Probability and Statistics: Learning how to analyse data, calculate risk, and use probability to predict real-world outcomes.

What skills will the course help students to develop? • Sharp Problem-Solving: The ability to look at a complicated, unfamiliar problem and break it down into logical steps. • Quantitative Reasoning: Feeling confident with data and numbers so you can make informed decisions in everyday life. • Cross-Subject Fluency: Mathematics is the “toolkit” for many of your other subjects. The skills you learn here will directly help you succeed in Science, Geography, Engineering, and Computing.

Assessment consists of three equally weighted written exam papers: • Paper 2: Calculator Required (1 hour 30 mins | 80 marks) • Paper 3: Calculator Required (1 hour 30 mins | 80 marks)

To be fully prepared for every lesson and exam, you must bring the following to school every day: • An approved scientific calculator (we highly recommend a Casio model) • A full geometry set (including a compass, protractor, and ruler) • A sharp pencil and eraser All other learning materials and exercise books will be provided by the department.

What extra opportunities are on offer? If you love a challenge, there are plenty of chances to test your skills against top students locally and nationally: • The AMSP Maths Feast: A fun, collaborative, “all-you-can-eat” team challenge specifically for Year 10 students to solve complex puzzles together. • UKMT Maths Challenges: You will have the opportunity to sit the prestigious Intermediate Mathematical Challenge (Years 10 & 11), with the chance to earn gold, silver, or bronze certificates.

Where can GCSE Mathematics take you? A strong grade in GCSE Maths is your passport to the future. It is a mandatory requirement for almost all post-16 paths, with a grade 5 or 6 being the minimum expectation for most Level 3 courses. If you excel at the subject, you can progress to A-Level Mathematics, Further Mathematics, or Statistics. It also provides the vital foundation needed for A-Levels, T-Levels, and future careers in Architecture, Engineering, Finance, Medicine, and Computer Science.

Core Curriculum Examining Body: AQA

GCSE Combined Science Double Award What does the course cover? The course covers Biology, Chemistry and Physics. Biology is the study of living organisms, their physiology, life-cycles and adaptations. Students will be introduced to topics including cardiovascular disease, human digestion, human evolution, inheritance, infectious disease, ecology and many more. Chemistry is based upon the combinations and reactions of the 118 different elements that make up the world around us. Students will be introduced to topics such as bonding and matter, chemical changes, energy changes, quantitative chemistry and rate of chemical change. Physics investigates how things work and how the universe can be explained using laws and theories from great minds such as Newton and Einstein. Students study topics including energy, electricity, particle model of matter, atomic structure, forces, waves, magnetism and electromagnetism.

What skills will the course help students to develop?

What other opportunities will be on offer for this subject?

The course helps students develop scientific knowledge and skills. It helps them develop skills of hypothesis, inquiry, analysis and evaluation.

The school welcomes a range of companies and employers who work in scientific fields and deliver talks about their work and experiences. They also offer visits to their sites. They often also offer work placements to UTCN students as part of their work experience week or in their own time.

How is the course assessed? Assessment will be comprised of six exams at the end of the course. Each exam is 1 hour and 15 minutes long.

What equipment do students need for the course? A calculator, ruler and protractor are needed especially for the exams, a revision guide will be available to purchase from the school and a folder will be handy to transport past papers.

What do students who study this course go on to do? Students who want to study science further often sit A levels in the sciences. Good scientific qualifications support studies in Engineering and other related fields.

Core Curriculum Examining Body: WJEC

Vocational Award In Engineering What does the course cover? This qualification enables students in Year 10 to take their first steps into the world of Engineering. This course introduces students to the essential skills required to be an engineer. It teaches them about a range of engineering processes and uses examples from current engineering careers to build knowledge about work. Students learn to use tools and equipment safely and appropriately in order to meet a tolerance of +/- 0.3mm during fabrication. Additional practical lesson time each week ensures students are well versed in the machine room and able to work the centre lathes and vertical milling machines both safely and independently. Units of study include: • Manufacturing Engineering Products • Designing Engineering Products • Solving Engineering Problems

What skills will the course help students to develop? This course introduces students to the essential skills required to be an engineer. It teaches them about a range of engineering processes and uses examples from current engineering careers to build knowledge about work. Students learn to use tools safely and appropriately.

How is the course assessed? Two units are assessed by controlled assessment totalling 60% of the qualification. Unit three is assessed by a written examination contributing to 40% of the total mark.

What equipment do students need for the course? Students need specialist engineering workwear. Please see the uniform list for details.

What other opportunities will be on offer for this subject? The school has a wide range of connections with local and national engineering companies. There are a multitude of engineering events throughout the year and students have the opportunity to work with engineers from all sectors.

What do students who study this course go on to do? This course offers a firm foundation for further Engineering study and qualifications. It also offers an opportunity to learn about a range of entry level careers in engineering.

Core Curriculum

Personal, Social, Physical Health and Education (PE) Economic (PSHE) What does the course cover?

What does the course cover?

Core PE is studied by all students as part of their curriculum. This ensures that all students develop their personal health and fitness. Our students have the opportunity to complete PE in a range of different local facilities such as the UEA Sports Park. This allows for a bespoke curriculum depending on the needs of the students. Typically, students have a double lesson per week on PE.

All students participate in the UTCN PSHE programme. The programme consists of:

The programme of study includes a wide range of physical activities including football, badminton, basketball, netball, table tennis and dance in the winter months and athletics in the summer months.

• Learning about living in the modern world including politics, religion, finance and economics

What skills will the course help students to develop? The course helps students keep a good level of fitness, understand rules of team and individual sports and have opportunities to coach and be coached. The aim of the course is to build healthy life-long fitness habits and team working skills.

How is the course assessed? There is no formal assessment for this course but students will receive regular feedback.

What equipment do students need for the course? Students will need all approved items of PE uniform as listed on the website.

What other opportunities will be on offer for this subject? The school arranges fixtures in a number of sports with other schools throughout the year. There is an annual sports day which offers lots of opportunities for everyone to get involved, no matter what their ability.

• Relationship and sex education • Personal development and staying safe • Social interactions • Healthy lifestyles • Careers education and employer engagement activities

• British values • Exploring religious faith and beliefs

What skills will the course help students to develop? This course develops students’ ability to understand their place in the world and how to interact with others. It looks at their communities, including their family, school and neighbourhood as well as what it means to live in the UK and be a global citizen in the 21st century. Students are supported with their transition to UTCN in Year 10 and their understanding and application of highquality destinations in Years 11 and 13. They develop an understanding of risks and how to stay safe, and learn debating skills and how to evaluate news and other sources of information.

How is the course assessed? There is no formal assessment for this course but students will receive regular feedback.

What equipment do students need for the course? There is no specialist equipment for this course.

What other opportunities will be on offer for this subject? The school often arranges visiting speakers to come and share their expertise in a range of areas. There is an annual educational visits day built around developing students’ cultural capital.

Option Examining Body: AQA

Option Examining Body: Edexcel

GCSE Triple Award Science

GCSE Business

What does the course cover?

Students will work towards three GCSEs in their science course, following the AQA Biology, Chemistry and Physics syllabi.

Whether you dream of launching your own startup, climbing the corporate ladder, or understanding how global giants like Apple and Nike dominate the market, GCSE Business is your toolkit for the real world. Every lesson is business-led, using real-life examples from small local businesses to massive multinational companies.

By choosing this option, students will study the three separate disciplines of science with dedicated lessons in each. This will replace Combined Science from the core subjects list. Taking three separate sciences allows students to delve deeper into the fascinating topics within each subject such as; the brain, the eye, space and chemical analysis of products.

What skills will the course help students to develop? The course helps students develop scientific knowledge and skills such as hypothesis, inquiry, analysis and evaluation. They will learn the skills needed to interact with the biological, molecular and physical world including, but not limited to: measuring mass, speeds, concentrations, volumes, and temperatures.

How is the course assessed? Assessment will consist of six exams at the end of the course (two per science). Each exam is 1 hour and 45 minutes in duration. Students will receive individual grades from each science course.

What other opportunities will be on offer for this subject? The school welcomes a range of companies and employers who work in scientific fields who talk about their work and experiences. They also offer visits to their sites and work placements to UTCN students as part of their work experience week or in their own time.

The course is split into two distinct, exciting themes: Theme 1: Investigating Small Businesses - This part of the course focuses on what it takes to spot a gap in the market and start a business from scratch. Through the lens of an entrepreneur, you will explore how to develop an idea, conduct market research, understand customer needs, and navigate the financial and legal challenges of a brand-new startup. Theme 2: Building A Business - Once a business succeeds, how does it grow? Here, you will look at the big decisions involved in expanding a business beyond the startup phase. You will dive into marketing strategies, operational management (how products are made), human resources (how to recruit and motivate a team), and how to read and analyse financial accounts.

What skills will the course help students to develop? • Strategic Analysis: The ability to look at a business’s situation, weigh up its options, and make smart, calculated decisions. • Financial Literacy: Confidence in working with business calculations, from budgeting and cash flow to understanding profit margins. • Critical Evaluation: Learning how to argue the pros and cons of real business moves and back up your ideas with solid data.

How is the course assessed? The course is fully linear and assessed through two written examination papers at the end of Year 11. Both exams use real business case studies and feature a mix of multiple-choice, short-answer, and extended essay questions. • Theme 1 Exam: Investigating Small Business (1 hour 45 mins | 50% of GCSE) • Theme 2 Exam: Building a Business (1 hour 45 mins | 50% of GCSE)

What equipment do students need for the course? To effectively analyse data and write your business reports, you must bring your standard daily pencil case kit: • Black pens, a green pen (for feedback and improvements), and highlighters • A sharp pencil, eraser, sharpener, and ruler • A standard scientific calculator (essential for financial calculations and formula work)

What do students who study this course go on to do? The skills you build in Business are highly practical and relevant to almost any career path you choose. Many students who excel in this course go on to study A-Level Business, A-Level Economics, or T-Levels. Because it teaches you how organizations operate and manage finances, it is also highly valued by students progressing into fields like Engineering, Law, Accountancy, and Management.

Option Examining Body: OCR

Option Examining Body: Edexcel

GCSE Computer Science

GCSE History

What does the course cover?

Computers are at the heart of modern society, but how do they actually work under the hood? GCSE Computer Science takes you past being just a user of technology and turns you into a creator of it. This is a highly practical and analytical subject where you will learn how to write code, solve complex puzzles, and understand the digital architecture shaping our world.

History Edexcel GCSE equips students to become critical thinkers about the past. Through in-depth study of key periods and events, students develop a strong understanding of historical change and continuity, focusing on Crime and Punishment in Britain, Henry VIII and his Ministers, Weimar and Nazi Germany, and Superpower Relations: The Cold War. They explore diverse historical interpretations and analyse primary sources to build their own informed judgements. The course hones essential skills like analysis, evaluation, and communication. Students learn to compare and contrast historical viewpoints, construct well-reasoned arguments supported by evidence, and draw insightful conclusions about the past’s impact on the present.

The course is split into two core areas, alongside hands-on programming practice: • Component 01: Computer Systems: You will dive into the physical hardware of computers, exploring how the Central Processing Unit (CPU) executes instructions, how memory and storage work, and how data like images and sound are represented as binary (1s and 0s). You will also explore how networks connect the globe, cyber security threats, and the ethical, legal, and environmental impacts of technology. • Component 02: Computational Thinking, Algorithms and Programming: This is where you learn to think like a computer scientist. You will master the fundamentals of designing algorithms, programming techniques, and building “robust” software that doesn’t crash. You will also learn about computational logic and how computers translate programming languages into action. • Practical Programming: Throughout the course, you will get extensive hands-on experience designing, writing, testing, and refining your own programs using a high-level language (such as Python).

What skills will the course help students to develop? • Computational Thinking: The ultimate superpower—learning how to take a massive, complicated problem, break it down into smaller parts (decomposition), and design a step-by-step blueprint to solve it (algorithmic thinking). • Logical Coding Fluency: The practical ability to write clean, efficient, and secure code to build digital tools. • Analytical Problem-Solving: Developing the resilience to “debug” errors in logic and find creative solutions when things don’t work the first time.

How is the course assessed? The course is assessed through two written examination papers taken at the end of Year 11. Your practical coding skills will be directly tested inside these exams (especially in Section B of Component 02). • Component 01: Computer Systems (1 hour 30 mins | 50% of GCSE) • Component 02: Computational Thinking, Algorithms and Programming (1 hour 30 mins | 50% of GCSE)

What equipment do students need for the course? You will need your standard daily pencil case kit, which must include: • Black pens, a green pen (for feedback/corrections), and highlighters • A sharp pencil, eraser, sharpener, and ruler • A standard scientific calculator

What skills will the course help students to develop? Students will develop many transferable skills to include presenting, problem solving, analysis and evaluation.

How is the course assessed? The course has three externally assessed papers varying in duration from 1 hour and 20 minutes to 1 hour and 50 minutes.

What equipment do students need for the course? Core equipment which includes a black pen, green pen, pencil, rubber, pencil sharpener, ruler, protractor, highlighter, scientific calculator.

What other opportunities will be on offer for this subject? Biennially, we run a residential trip to Berlin. Historically, Berlin is a city which is the epicenter of great historical and cultural change: two of our units (Weimar and Nazi Germany, and Superpower Relations) feature the capital. Throughout the course of a week in Germany, students will discover tangible history and how Berlin has been shaped across the course of the twentieth century. Typical excursions include, but are not limited to: visiting the Reichstag building; a tour of Tempelhof airport; and a visit to the Sachsenhausen Concentration Camp in Oranienburg. Students also take part in a full-day GCSE Crime and Punishment workshop at Norwich Castle. Set within the newly refurbished site, the session allows students to explore how crime, law enforcement and punishment developed at a local level, bringing their GCSE History studies to life through a rich and engaging heritage setting.

What do students who study this course go on to do? Students who wish to study History further often choose to study it at A level alongside two other subjects. Careers in this field include teaching, researching, journalism, law, heritage management and archaeology.

All specialist computing equipment and software will be provided in the school labs.

What do students who study this course go on to do? If you want to understand the power and limits of human and machine intelligence, this course is the perfect foundation. It provides invaluable preparation for A-Level Computer Science and higherlevel software engineering pathways. Beyond pure technology, the analytical and logical skills you build here are highly prized in fields like Aerospace, Forensic Science, Engineering, Finance, Game Design, and Artificial Intelligence.

Option Examining Body: AQA

Option Examining Body: WJEC

GCSE Art and Design

GCSE Sociology

What does the course cover?

GCSE Art and Design provides the opportunity for students to explore both contemporary and historical sources of art, craft and design first hand.

Sociology is the study of human relationships and institutions. It gives students eye-opening insights into human behaviour and the way we have changed our views over time. It helps students to gain knowledge and understanding of key social structures, processes and issues through the study of families, education, crime and deviance and social groups. Students will develop their analytical, assimilation and communication skills by comparing and contrasting perspectives on a variety of social issues, constructing reasoned arguments, making substantiated judgements and drawing reasoned conclusions.

What skills will the course help students to develop? The delivery of Art has been carefully planned to include a wide range of skills and techniques including drawing, painting, collage, mixed-media, photography, print-making, model-making, and contextual studies. Drawing from observation is an important element of the course and will help to develop students’ spatial awareness, visual perception and judgement.

How is the course assessed? The course is assessed through two internally assessed and externally moderated components.

What equipment do students need for the course? Students will need to create an Art portfolio and will need specific art folders for the course. All other art equipment will be provided, where possible. Further information will be provided at the beginning of the course.

What other opportunities will be on offer for this subject? At the end of this course, students’ work is exhibited at UTCN, and parents are invited to attend the exhibition with their child.

What do students who study this course go on to do? Many of our students use Art to support their interest in engineering design. Students often move onto study Engineering or Art at Post 16.

What skills will the course help students to develop? By studying Sociology, students will develop transferable skills including how to investigate facts and make deductions; develop opinions and new ideas on social issues and analyse and better understand the social world. They will practise using different research methods and debate key societal issues.

How is the course assessed? The course has two externally assessed examinations. Each exam is 1 hour and 45-minutes in duration.

What equipment do students need for the course? Core equipment which includes a black pen, green pen, pencil, rubber, pencil sharpener, ruler, protractor, highlighter, scientific calculator.

What other opportunities will be on offer for this subject? We have visits from Norfolk Police who deliver specialist talks on the changes in crime and the factors influencing that change.

What do students who study this course go on to do? The skills students develop when studying Sociology are relevant and useful for almost all future study and career paths due the content and analytical nature of the course. There are some specific career paths that are more closely linked to it, for example, teaching, marketing, law, policing and management roles. Students often move onto studying Psychology A Level.

Option Examining Body: AQA

Option Examining Body: Pearson BTEC

GCSE Geography

Health and Social Care

What does the course cover?

Students will travel the world from their classroom, exploring case studies in the United Kingdom (UK), higher income countries (HICs), newly emerging economies (NEEs) and lower income countries (LICs). Topics of study include climate change, poverty, deprivation, global shifts in economic power, and the challenge of sustainable resource use. Students are also encouraged to understand their role in society, by considering different viewpoints, values, and attitudes.

This course is equivalent to one GCSE. Students will develop learning and practical skills that can be applied to real-life contexts and work situations, and they will learn to think creatively, innovatively, analytically, logically and critically. Students will gain skills extremely relevant to the health and applied science sectors and increase their employability through increased independence and confidence.

What skills will the course help students to develop? Students will gain global awareness throughout their study through learning about diverse cultures, societies, economies, and environments across the globe. This fosters a broader understanding of interconnectedness and global issues like climate change, poverty, and resource management. Furthermore, it helps students develop a deeper understanding of their local environment, the UK, and other parts of the world, fostering a sense of place and belonging.

How is the course assessed? The course is assessed over three papers: Paper 1 focusing on Physical Geography, Paper 2 on Human Geography and Paper 3 on Geographical Applications. Each paper is 1 hour and 30 minutes in duration.

What equipment do students need for the course? Core equipment which includes a black pen, green pen, pencil, rubber, pencil sharpener, ruler, protractor, highlighter, scientific calculator.

What other opportunities will be on offer for this subject? Students studying geography will undertake physical and human geography fieldwork, focusing on developing accurate and appropriate data collection and analysis skills. To do this we run a day trip to Southwold to explore the changing coastline as well as the evolving population.

What do students who study this course go on to do? Geography involves analysing complex information, evaluating different perspectives, and proposing solutions to real-world problems. Therefore Geography students will have a variety of transferable skills going into the workplace. They could work in: environmental management and conservation, urban planning and development, surveying, and international development.

What skills will the course help students to develop? The skills and knowledge students will develop on this course include understanding of how individuals develop throughout their lives, how events can affect people, strategies to help with these events, health (good and bad) and the care services that are provided in the UK. As the coursework for this subject is worth 60% of the final grade, students will also develop and understand how to write essays that are concise, informative and well structured to enable them to achieve the highest marks possible.

How is the course assessed? The course has three units for assessment: • Component 1: Human Lifespan Development (coursework, completed in Y10 worth 30% of the final grade) • Component 2: Health and Social Care Services and Values (coursework, completed in Y11 worth 30% of the final grade) • Component 3: Health and wellbeing (exam, completed at the end of Y11 worth 40% of the final grade)

What equipment do students need for the course? Core equipment which includes a black pen, green pen, pencil, rubber, pencil sharpener, ruler, protractor, highlighter, scientific calculator.

What other opportunities will be on offer for this subject? The Science faculty regularly invite speakers from the Health sector to talk to students about potential careers in this field.

What do students who study this course go on to do? Students who want to study science further often sit A levels in the Sciences. Good scientific qualifications support studies in Engineering, Health and other related fields.

Option Examining Body: NCFE

Option Examining Body: AQA

Technical Award in Health and Fitness

GCSE Further Maths

What does the course cover?

The study of Health and Fitness involves understanding the functions of the body systems, understanding of the principles of training, knowing how the body reacts in the short-and long-term to fitness activities, how to create and apply lifestyle analysis tools and how to create a fitness programme for a person with specific goals.

If you love mathematics and find yourself finishing classwork quickly, this option is designed for you. This course bridges the gap between GCSE and A-Level, introducing you to advanced mathematical concepts used by engineers, physicists, and data scientists.

What skills will the course help students to develop? This qualification is for students who are looking to develop a significant core of knowledge and understanding of Health and Fitness. It encourages them to use knowledge and practical tools to focus on supporting people with specific health and fitness-related goals.

How is the course assessed? The course is assessed over two units. Unit 1 is an external written exam which is worth 40% of the final grade, and Unit 2 is a synoptic project which is 60% of the final grade. The content of this course will be delivered in both practical and theory lessons.

What equipment do students need for the course? Whilst this subject is primarily classroom-based, students will need their PE kit for the practical elements of the course.

What do students who study this course go on to do? Students may progress onto sport-related courses, including personal training, nutrition and sports sciences. Health and Fitness also has strong links with the sciences, and compliments further study of subjects such as Biology.

You will push your mathematical boundaries across six key areas: • Number: Deepening your understanding of the product rule for counting and advanced numeric manipulation. • Algebra: Mastering complex algebraic equations, factor theorems, and functions that go far beyond the standard GCSE curriculum. • Coordinate Geometry: Exploring the geometry of straight lines and circles in 2D space. • Calculus: An exciting introduction to differentiation and integration— the mathematical study of how things change in real-time. • Matrix Transformations: Learning how to use matrices to rotate, reflect, and scale shapes mathematically (the core technology behind video game graphics). • Geometry: Diving into advanced trigonometry, geometric proofs, and the properties of shapes in greater depth.

What skills will the course help you develop? • Elite Technical Proficiency: You will master advanced algebraic and geometric tools before you even start sixth form. • Rigorous Mathematical Argument: Learning how to write flawless, step-by-step proofs that show exactly why a mathematical statement is true. • Advanced Problem-Solving: Building the resilience to tackle multistep, unstructured problems that require deep logical thinking.

How is the course assessed? This is an untiered qualification, meaning all students sit the same papers to access the full range of grades (up to Grade 9). Assessment consists of two written exams taken at the end of Year 11: • Paper 1: Non-Calculator (1 hour 45 mins | 80 marks) • Paper 2: Calculator Required (1 hour 45 mins | 80 marks)

What equipment do you need? • A high-quality scientific calculator (we strongly recommend a Casio model). • Your standard geometry set (ruler, protractor, compass, and pencil).

Who is this course for, and where can it take you? This option is strictly designed for high-achieving mathematicians aiming for Grades 7, 8, or 9 in their core GCSE Mathematics. If you are considering studying A-Level Mathematics or A-Level Further Mathematics, this course gives you an incredible head start. It is highly regarded by top universities and provides a massive advantage for future careers in Aerospace, Quantum Computing, Theoretical Physics, Engineering, and Finance. Important note: This is an additional qualification taken alongside your standard GCSE Mathematics, not a replacement for it.

Curriculum Enrichment Arkwright Engineering of Edinburgh Award Scholarships Programme Duke UTCN offers students in Year 10 the opportunity to The Arkwright Engineering Scholarships programme identifies, inspires and nurtures future leaders in Engineering, Computing and Technical Design. There is a rigorous selection process for Arkwright Engineering Scholarships for high calibre students who apply in Year 11 and meet the scholarship criteria. The Arkwright Engineering Scholarships support students through A Levels and encourage students to pursue Engineering, Computing or Technical Design at University or through a higher-level apprenticeship and to pursue careers in the field. Every Arkwright Engineering Scholarship is sponsored by an industrial company, university, charitable trust, trade association, professional institution, armed service, worshipful company, industry regulator or personal donor. We are very proud to have current student scholars, sponsored/ mentored by prestigious UK companies. If you have the potential, we will do all we can to support you through the rigorous selection process.

undertake the Silver Award which consists of the following sections: • Volunteering – to undertake service to individuals and to the community. • Expedition – undertaking a spirit of adventure and discovery on an overnight expedition. • Skills – to develop personal interests, hobbies or social and practical skills. • Physical Recreation – to participate and improve in a physical activity. Expeditions are organised by UTCN each year and students attend regular training sessions at school in order to complete the Expedition Section. The remaining sections are completed by students in their own time. UTCN staff support students as they progress through the award, however a large amount of responsibility lies with the student. It is not necessary to have participated in the Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme previously as students can begin the Silver Award level as a direct entrant. The Silver Award can be completed in as little as 12 months. After completion of the Silver Award level, students are able to progress to the Gold Award level and will continue to receive support from UTCN with its completion.

Further Opportunities at UTCN

“Through work experience from my sponsor, a whole new career path has been opened for me and has set me up for when I leave to go straight into a degree apprenticeship. It is worth applying because it really pushes you and opens up a lot of doors to help you progress in the future.” Lucie, UTCN Alumni

• Careers Expo • Ski Trip • Offshore Wind activities • Fatal 4 – Road Safety Awareness • First Aid Training • Financial workshops • Maths Challenges • Student Leadership Team • Theatre trips • Trips to Engineering firms • RAF Principles of Flight day • UEA Maths workshops • Youth STEMM Award • Berlin Trip • Cultural Capital Trip

Applying to UTCN

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Over Subscription Please note we expect to be oversubscribed for the 2027 entry. Should we reach full capacity, you will be placed on a waiting list. If a place becomes available, you will be informed and made an offer.

Travelling to UTCN by bus UTCN is located approximately 2.5 miles from Norwich City Centre and is easily accessible from all parts of Norfolk and Suﬀolk. Please refer to our website for more information about travel options.

Travel by Train For students who wish to travel by train, the school is a short bus journey from Norwich Train Station and there is a contract bus which can shuttle students from the train station to the school. If a student travels into Norwich by train it is advised that they purchase a contract bus pass via the school to ensure they arrive at the school on time.

Travel by Bus There are two types of buses that service the school. 1. UTCN Contract Bus 2. First Bus Service Public Bus

Contract Bus We are currently reviewing our contract bus provision for the 2027–28 academic year. This service provides transport between the school and Norwich City Centre. The contract bus service is available to all students on a chargeable basis, passes will be available to purchase directly from the school. Full details of the service, including routes, timetables and charges, will be published on the school website once arrangements have been confirmed.

First Bus Service Public Bus The following bus routes service the school: 7, 36, 37, 38. Please look at our website for more details. The most economical way of travelling by bus is buying a bus pass.

Travel by bicycle There are covered bicycle racks available at the school. Students leave their bicycles at their own risk and are advised to follow all safety precautions including wearing a helmet and using cycle lanes where appropriate.

Travelling to UTCN by moped or motorbike For students who wish to travel to UTCN by moped or motorbike, there is specific parking available at school. Vehicles are left at the students’ own risk and students should follow all safety precautions including wearing a helmet.

Travel by car Please be aware that there is no student car parking available at UTCN. This is part of the building’s planning consent and not something that we have control over.

Year 10 Uniform Our Uniform Supplier is Birds of Dereham. The UTCN uniform is designed to be smart, professional and cost eﬀective. Further clarification on our uniform can be found in the uniform policy on our website. Our Uniform and Appearance policy has been developed with our governing body of employers to prepare students for the world of work. All prospective students and their parents should ensure that they are able to adhere to the UTCN Uniform and Appearance Policy as it is strictly enforced. Items marked Birds can only be purchased from our uniform supplier Birds of Dereham.

Uniform: Year 10 and 11

Logos/slogans/accessories/decorations are not permitted on any item of PE clothing, apart from the UTCN logo. Required items: • Polo shirt: Purple with UTCN logo (Birds of Dereham). • Shorts: Black, loose fitting, suitable length e.g. football/hockey style shorts. • Sports jogging bottoms: Plain black • Socks: Plain white sports socks (for all lessons other than football). • Plain black football socks

Classroom

• Shin pads.

• Trousers: Plain black, tailored, regular fit (no denim, pocket zips or embellishments, no tight trousers, leggings, jeans or ¾ length trousers). Trousers are to be worn at the waist.

• Trainers: Suitable for taking part in indoor and outdoor sport (no pump or canvas-style shoes).

• Skirt: Plain pleated matte black, knee-length (no pencil or tube skirts). This should be worn at the standard length (to the knee) and not taken up or rolled up. Optional UTCN branded skirts are available (Birds of Dereham). • Socks: Plain black ankle, no logos, no fluffy socks. • Tights: Plain black opaque 50 denier. • Shirt: Plain white shirt with collar. The shirt must be tucked in and with the top button fastened. • Jumper (optional): Branded graphite V-neck jumper with UTCN logo. (Birds of Dereham) No other jumpers are permitted. • Blazer: Branded graphite blazer with UTCN logo on jacket pocket. Fitted blazer are available (Birds of Dereham) • Shoes: Plain black leather school shoes, providing adequate protection and support (no casuals, fabric, canvas, trainers, sandals, sling backs, pumps, high heels, boots, coloured laces, coloured stitching, logos). • Tie: UTCN tie for appropriate year group. Worn to the waist. (Birds of Dereham) Spare ties are available from UTCN. • Belts: Plain black, plain buckle (no oversized buckles). Must be worn if trousers are loose. • Hijab, abaya, prayer cap, turban, patka: Plain matt black. (No durags). • T-shirts and Vests: Only plain, white T-shirts or vests may be worn under school shirt.

Workshop A class set of black dustcoats with the UTCN logo will be provided at school for every practical lesson. • Black Chukka safety boots: Must include steel toe protection and mid-sole penetration protection. (V&J or must be marked S1P or SBP compliant) available from Birds of Dereham or other suppliers who meet the specific requirements.

P.E

• Plain black sweatshirt: Without hood or optional UTCN branded zip mid layer is available (Birds of Dereham).

Optional items: • Football boots: Are required for fixtures. Long hair must be tied up neatly and securely and all jewellery must be removed for all PE lessons.

Outside • Coat: Suitable smart coat. • Scarves: Only in cold weather. • Hats: Plain black woollen hat, only in cold weather (no bobbles, visors).

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 We are STEM Sc a hool

10 Thing s to Know About U TCN

We focus on the discipline s of scien ce, technolo gy, engin eering and math ematics

High standard s

At UTCN we have high standard s of beha viour

Skills

There is a local skills gap which we work clo sely with employe rs to add ress

Exams

We teach GCSEs as well as other vocation al qualiﬁc ations

You w passiona ill be te your sub about jects We love them and you will enjoy them too !

4 Years

We oﬀer a 4-year educatio n program me so you ca n stay on at our Sixth Form

Extra cu

rricular

We have lots of en richment opportun ities for y ou to get inv olved in

School d

ays

UTCN w orks a lon ger teaching day Tues day – Thursday and has a n earlier ﬁnish on Mondays and Frida ys

Employa

bility

We look to prepare you for y our next steps through developin g employa bility skil ls like team work and leade rship

Facilitie s

We have state-oftheart engin eering fa cilities and bran d new science c lassroom s!

Case Study Megan Graham, current Year 11 student I chose to study at UTCN because of its outstanding engineering facilities and the structured approach to lessons, which helps me stay focused and enables me to learn effectively. The teaching staff are incredibly supportive, always willing to help during lessons, and are approachable outside the classroom, creating a positive and engaging learning environment. My aspiration is to join the Royal Engineers in the British Army, combining my passion for engineering with a desire to make a meaningful difference. During my work experience at Delta Fire, I had the opportunity to develop 3D models and technical drawings using SolidWorks, a professional design software. It was a valuable and enjoyable experience that deepened my interest in engineering.

To any student considering UTCN, my advice would be to research the career paths that interest them before enrolling. This will help them make an informed decision and make the most of their time at UTCN. I also encourage future students to make full use of the resources available, such as the school library and the dedicated support from teachers. These resources have been instrumental in helping me understand complex concepts and stay motivated in my studies.

Celebrating Success Joshua Kalu Joshua who joined UTCN in Year 10 achieved a string of eights, nines and a distinction star in his GCSE exams. Now in Year 13, Joshua is continuing his studies at UTCN, where he is currently pursuing A Levels in Computer Science, Maths, and Physics. He is now Head Student and leads our Student Leadership Team. Reflecting on his academic achievement to date, Joshua shared, “I was shocked to get a Distinction* in Engineering because I really struggled with the course at the start of Year 10. But thanks to the support and encouragement from my teachers, I was able to turn things around.” Joshua’s time at UTCN has been marked by a number of accomplishments. He participated in the Manufacturing Technologies Association’s TDI Challenge, an opportunity supported by Baker Dearing. He was also awarded a prestigious Arkwright Engineering Scholarship, granted to high-achieving students with strong potential in engineering and technical fields. In addition, Joshua was one of only six students in Norfolk selected to deliver a micro-lecture for the Royal Geographical Society – an honour that highlights his academic ability and confidence in presenting. Speaking about his experience at UTCN, Joshua said: “The teachers go above and beyond to provide tailored support, and the lessons are designed to work for everyone. The environment here is incredibly supportive, and being surrounded by students who are passionate about STEM has really kept me motivated.” Looking ahead, Joshua plans to study Computer Science at university, building on the strong foundation he has developed at UTCN.

UTCN, Old Hall Road, Norwich, NR4 6FF Tel: 01603 580280 www.utcn.org.uk admissions@utcncst.org University Technical College Norfolk is part of the Community School Trust (CST). CST is an established academy trust, passionate about the life chances of young people. We provide a first-rate education for every child and work hard to create outstanding schools that change perceptions and expectations across whole communities.

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