The Leigh UTC, which is on the Bridge development in Dartford, welcomed its first students on Monday 8 September.

The college has a clear vision to be a “distinctive education provider” for STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) learning.

Principal Steve Leahey said: “Our newly built centre of excellence will allow up to 600 young people from the region to learn via a person-alised curriculum that emphasises the practical application of academic and vocational learning.

“We will develop the next generation of ‘world class’ engineers and scientists by inspiring them through a bespoke academic curriculum, delivered by a combination of higher-education-sector staff, business entrepreneurs and UTC staff.”

The official opening took place on Tuesday 7 October with Richard Noble as guest of honour; former Conservative Education Secretary Lord Baker and MPs also attended.

“The message was clear, we need more UTCs like the Leigh that specialise in engineering and apprenticeship programmes,” said Mr Leahey.

“We had over 30 business partners attend the opening and we are always looking to expand our pool of expertise.

“Our students will be manufacturing a part from the official drawings for the Bloodhound project, as supplied by Richard Noble. Other projects that our students are involved in include the Greenpower challenge, which will see students design, build and race an electric car.”

For further details of the facility e-mail Mr Leahey ().