Sam Robinson is studying physics at the prestigious University of Durham after graduating from UTC Leeds in summer 2019 with an A* in maths, an A* in further maths and an A in physics. We interviewed Sam on A Level results day.
“When I first came to UTC Leeds, it felt like a completely new world, all the things I was being introduced to. It was quite an academic sixth form in my old school. I got settled here quite quickly, it was an easy transition.”
Sam’s daily commute was 45 minutes to the UTC: “It was a bit of effort to get here but definitely worth it.
“I heard about the UTC through a former teacher. I looked into it and made up my mind to apply after visiting several times. I didn’t like the environment in my school sixth form and I was drawn to the mechanical industry. When I saw all the equipment here I thought this would suit me better than where I was.”
Sam studied physics, maths, further maths, and engineering in Year 12 then focused on his three A Levels in Year 13:
“We used all the equipment. In my first year we did loads on CNC and did a lot on the design studio side as part of a project in Year 12.
“One of the standout moments was a week’s work experience in an engineering workshop at DAS Engineering Services in Swillington. I felt like I got a taste of mechanical engineering and production.
“I was very productive at the UTC. There was a friendly atmosphere between the teachers and the students. Then, when it came down to it, I felt I could definitely get my head down and focus.”
