In September 2020, the school became a member of The Keys Federation Academy Trust and reopened as a free school, the University Collegiate School, in response to demand for secondary school places in Bolton.[4] At that time the Principal, Nicola Glynn, described it as a "school and college".[5]
During the 21/22 academic year a number of staff left, including the Principal, Nicola Glynn. In December 2022, the school was inspected by Ofsted and was judged 'inadequate' in every category.[6] Dave Terry was appointed as interim Principal in February 2023.[7]
Predecessor UTC
Bolton UTC was officially opened in November 2015 by Prince Edward, Earl of Wessex.[8][9] It specialised in health sciences and technology, and its £10million facilities included laboratories for optometry, clinical dentistry, pharmaceutical consulting, medical simulation, robotics and electronics.[10]
At A-level, students were given a choice of pathways: engineering or health sciences focused. At A-level they could study English Language, Mathematics, Further Mathematics, English Literature, Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Geography, Psychology, Computer Science, BTEC Level 3 Applied Science and BTEC Level 3 Health and Social Care.
The UTC entered 'special measures' after it was rated 'inadequate' in all categories at its first Ofsted inspection in 2017.[11] The inspection report said there had been "considerable failures at the most senior leadership level", governors had been ineffective, and links with local industry were weak. Pupils said they had little opportunity to use the "outstanding facilities".[12]
In 2018, the Education and Skills Funding Agency issued a "final notice to improve" to the UTC, after a review found inadequate financial controls and breaches of policies.[13]
At the next full inspection in 2019 the UTC was rated 'good' in all categories;[14] at that time 159 were enrolled although its capacity was 600.[15]
