The RN-supported University Technical College Portsmouth has earned its first plaudits - four months ahead of educating the first students.
The college on London Road in north Portsmouth scored 47 out of 50 when the site was visited by assessors from the Considerate Constructors Scheme.
The scheme aims to improve the image of the construction industry by focusing on three main areas of concern: the general public, the workforce, and the environment.
The resulting high score reflected high marks in every category, including full marks in safety and valuing the workforce by builders BAM Construct.
As for the college itself, it is due to open its doors on September 11 to 14-19 year olds looking to focus on STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) subjects, specialising in electrical and mechanical engineering and advanced manufacturing.
The RN-sponsored college has a waiting list for the Year 10 entry (14/15-year-olds), although its still taking applications for the sixth form.
The goal is to produce a generation of students who are 'work ready' for industry leaders such as BAE, Airbus, Land Rover BAR, QinetiQ, DSTL, the RN and other local/national employers based in the Portsmouth area who are backing the new college.
In addition to conducting project work in collaboration with these partners, students also conduct a wide range of enrichment activities, frequently scheduled into their longer 'working' day.
"Working with BAM Construct on the building of this brand-new college has been collaborative from the start and they have been very supportive in showcasing our unique Sixth Form and Year 10 offer," said Lt Cdr Fiona Haynes, the RN's UTC Portsmouth project manager.
To find out more, visit utcportsmouth.org
