APPLICATIONS to study at the first University Technical College in Cheshire, Crewe Engineering & Design UTC, have opened.

Students are advised to apply early amid growing interest, with over 300 students having already registered their intention to study at the school.

Crewe Engineering & Design UTC will open in September 2016 following a £10.6 million government investment programme.

The school will deliver exciting and engaging courses to 14-18 year olds, alongside business and academic partners such as Bentley Motors, OSL Rail, Manchester Metropolitan University, Siemens, Bosch, Chevron Racing, Optical 3D and Unipart Logistics.

Dr Georgina Harris, chair of the UTC board of members and head of mechanical engineering at Manchester Metropolitan University, said: “Crewe Engineering & Design UTC offers young people the opportunity to follow their passion for Design and Engineering.

"The curriculum has been developed to combine real-world engineering innovation challenges alongside academic and vocational qualifications.

"For students who wish to tackle society’s grand challenges and who are looking for a varied and exciting career with excellent employability prospects; this school is for you!

“We will open with a maximum of 200 students and we expect places to fill up very quickly. I would urge the future engineers of Crewe and their parents to sign up to the waiting list as soon as possible.”

Applications to be part of the September 2016 intake must be made by 31st January 2016. There are 100 places for Year 10 students, and 100 places for Year 12 students in the first year.

Students that live in Crewe, Congleton, Nantwich, Macclesfield and the wider Cheshire East, Cheshire West and Staffordshire areas can apply.

For more information visit utccrewe.co.uk

Construction on the Victoria Centre campus will commence later this year, including a new 3,367m² building, and a complete refurbishment of the existing site.

The Victoria Centre has been a Crewe landmark for over 100 years, with a strong academic association.

Cheshire East Council has played a pivotal role in the project and will ensure the current community centre will have an alternative accommodation in Crewe.