Lord Kenneth Baker, Baron of Dorking, British politician, former Conservative Member of Parliament and cabinet minister visited the WMG Academy for Young Engineers in Solihull on Tuesday 15 November to show his support for the work of the University Technical College.

The Royal Academy of Engineering has highlighted that the UK will need a million more engineers and technicians by 2020, which will require doubling the number of engineering apprentices every year. Under the leadership of Kate Tague, Executive Principal of the WMG Academies Trust, the WMG Academy in Solihull is playing a key role in addressing this need by creating a crucial link between national and local employers, parents and universities.

Lord Baker said “I’m pleased to be visiting the WMG Academy for Young Engineers, Solihull, which is the 2^nd UTC supported by WMG and Jaguar Land Rover. I’ve been impressed by what I’ve seen, all of the pupils are enthusiastic and excited about studying engineering. With the need for more skilled engineers, the Academy gives these pupils the opportunity to develop their skills and knowledge progressing into a higher apprenticeship, university or a job. I wish all the pupils good luck in their studies.”

During his career in the Civil Service Lord Baker served as Secretary of State for Education from 1986 to 1989 and Home Secretary from 1990 to 1992.

Lord Baker’s visit shows his support for the great work that is being done to further establish the WMG Academies and the midlands as a focal point for developing this much needed talent.

Alongside WMG, and the University of Warwick, are 16 of the region’s largest employers, who from day one have inputted into the WMG Academy curriculum ensuring that students are educated in the relevant areas, in an environment with a professional ethos and culture that is both in high demand in today’s working world and key to supporting our local and regional economy.

Find out more about what is going on at thw WMG Academy for Young Engineers on their website: http://solihull.wmgacademy.org.uk/

Contact:

Alex Buxton: Media Relations Manager, University of Warwick

Tel: 02476 150423
Mob: 07876 218166
E: a.buxton.1@warwick.ac.uk