Welcome
Meet the principal
Welcome to Aldridge UTC Darwen
Stand Out. Specialise. Succeed. This is the heart of UTC Darwen.
Specialising in digital, media, and healthcare pathways, we combine academic excellence with hands-on learning to prepare students for the careers of tomorrow.
We offer a broad and ambitious curriculum, including GCSEs, BTECs, T Levels, and A Levels. At KS5, our D6 provision enables cross-campus collaboration, giving students exciting opportunities to work on innovative projects and develop real-world skills. We have high expectations for every student’s achievement, not only in our specialisms, but across all areas of learning.
My philosophy is simple: we transform life chances through the education our young people receive. I am passionate about creating opportunities for all students, instilling the belief that they can achieve anything. I want to inspire a love of learning, whether it’s mastering new skills, embracing fresh experiences, or rising to a challenge. We encourage our learners to take risks, because employers value attributes such as problem-solving, determination, confidence, ambition, and passion.
We work in close partnership with families, because education is most powerful when school and home work together. I have enormous pride in the staff and students here, and I warmly invite families to join us on our journey. Together, we will nurture young people who are not only academically successful but also confident, compassionate, and ready to make their mark on the world.
As part of the Aldridge Education family, we believe education should be stimulating, enriching, and empowering, offering every student genuine choice for their future. Our close partnerships with leading employers from Channel 4 and Amazon Web Services to local hospitals and British Aerospace, bring learning to life and ensure our students are industry-ready.
At UTC Darwen, you’ll learn from expert teachers, use industry-standard tools, and tackle real briefs set by our partners. You’ll gain the confidence, creativity, and resilience to succeed at university, in apprenticeships, and in the workplace.
These are exciting times for our community. I look forward to seeing our students stand out, specialise, and succeed turning talent into achievement, and ambition into reality.
Julie Green
Principal
About UTC Schools
A University Technical College (UTC) is a state-funded secondary school for students aged 14-19 that combines academic study with technical and professional education. UTCs work closely with universities and leading employers to provide a curriculum that is aligned to industry needs and future careers.
Students study core GCSEs alongside specialist subjects such as engineering, digital technologies, health sciences, cyber security, construction and advanced manufacturing. Through employer-led projects, industry-standard facilities, workplace experiences and careers guidance, students develop the technical skills, knowledge and behaviours needed for higher education, apprenticeships and employment.
UTCs offer a unique learning environment that helps young people discover their strengths, gain valuable real-world experience and prepare for successful careers in high-demand industries.
At UTC Darwen, students benefit from strong partnerships with employers and industry experts, ensuring that learning is relevant, engaging and directly connected to the opportunities available in today's workforce.
UTCD – Myth vs Fact
There are a few common misconceptions about Aldridge UTC Darwen (UTCD). Here's the reality:
Myth: You have to pay to attend UTCD.
Fact: UTCD is a state-funded school and is completely free to attend.
Myth: Students don't study English, Maths or Science.
Fact: All Key Stage 4 students study:
- English Language
- English Literature
- Mathematics
- Combined Science
- Physical Education (PE)
In addition, students choose three specialist subjects linked to their interests and future career goals.
Myth: The qualifications aren't recognised.
Fact: Every qualification offered at UTCD is approved by the Department for Education and is recognised by employers, universities, colleges and apprenticeship providers.
Myth: UTCD is always full, so there's no point applying.
Fact: Places are in high demand, but vacancies can become available. We always encourage families to get in touch and enquire about current availability.
Myth: UTCD is the same school as DACA.
Fact: UTCD and DACA are separate schools within the Aldridge Education family. While we work closely together and share the same trust, UTCD has its own specialist curriculum, facilities and opportunities for students.
Have a Question?
If you'd like to find out more about studying at Aldridge UTC Darwen, we'd love to hear from you. Contact our team to discuss admissions, courses and available places.