UNIVERSITY NEWS LAST UPDATED : 01 JUNE 2023
The next generation of frontline workers in West Bromwich will benefit from access to high-tech training facilities and academic experts, thanks to a new partnership between Birmingham City University (BCU) and Shireland Biomedical University Technical College (UTC).
In a major boost to healthcare provision across the region, sixth formers at the UTC – the first in the United Kingdom with health sciences as its specialism – will make regular visits to BCU’s City South campus in Edgbaston, where scores of healthcare, education and life science professionals are trained every year.
The partnership will also provide pupils with work experience opportunities and the chance to attend lectures run by BCU’s academic staff.
“Powering the NHS and other frontline professions is one of our key missions here at Birmingham City University - so I am delighted that we’re forging close links with Shireland Biomedical UTC, a trailblazing school providing outstanding education to aspiring healthcare professionals,” said Professor Philip Plowden, Vice Chancellor at BCU.
“It’s a real pleasure for us to offer opportunities for the pupils at Shireland to use our facilities and tap into the expertise of our health, education and life sciences academics.
“I look forward to seeing pupils from Shireland enter higher education and carve out successful, impactful careers in a range of crucial frontline roles in the NHS, teaching and social care - with many, I hope, going on to train at our state-of-the-art City South campus.”
Representatives from the university will also take on roles on the UTC’s board of governors, ensuring the partnership offers the best possible experience for young people, who will hopefully go on to play key roles in the NHS, education and social care sectors.
Sir Mark Grundy, CEO of Shireland Collegiate Academy Trust and recipient of an honorary doctorate at BCU, said:"We are thrilled to establish this partnership with Birmingham City University, providing unparalleled opportunities for our students.
“By leveraging BCU's expertise, we unlock unrivalled access to training, equipping our learners for successful careers in healthcare and beyond. This collaboration shapes the future of education in an empowering manner.
"This partnership benefits both Shireland Collegiate Academy Trust and BCU. We bring unique expertise in education, while BCU gains insights into the needs and aspirations of the next generation. Together, we strive for excellence in providing exceptional education."
Shireland Biomedical UTC and BCU celebrated the start of the partnership this month, with 60 Year 12 students visiting the university’s Faculty of Health, Education and Life Sciences.
As part of the taster day, pupils participated in science and healthcare-related lectures and practical workshops to get an understanding of what it’s like to study at degree level.
Kayleigh Steed, Head of Sixth Form at Shireland Biomedical UTC, said: “Experiences like the Year 12 taster day at BCU provide our students with valuable insights into higher education and broaden their horizons, helping them to see the educational pathways available to them that align with their career aspirations. These opportunities enable students to make informed choices and set their sights on successful futures.”
BCU's City South campus recently unveiled new multi-million pound simulation facilities and provides high-quality training to nurses, midwives, paramedics, physiotherapists and other healthcare professionals. It is also contracted to deliver healthcare education to nurses, radiographers and operating department practitioners in the Armed Forces.
BCU undertakes a range of activities to support young people from disadvantaged backgrounds to access higher education. This includes workshops and subject-specific activities in schools, tailored mentoring for hundreds of learners across the West Midlands, as well as advice and guidance for young people and their families.