Nuclear college on way to West Cumbria

A NEW National College for Nuclear (NCfN) will train future workers and develop world class skills in the UK’s thriving nuclear industry.

The college, a partnership between Government and nuclear employers, led by EDF Energy and Sellafield, will be based at two hubs in Somerset and West Cumbria, close to major sites of nuclear investment.

The two hubs will provide a reactor simulator and virtual reality engineering learning facilities, offering high-tech specialist training to meet the skills needs of nuclear industry employers across the UK.

Business Minister Matthew Hancock said: “It’s expected the nuclear industry will need 30,000 new employees over the next decade – and the Nuclear College will equip young people with the skills they need.

“Creating jobs and opportunities for local people is front and centre of our long term economic plan to secure a brighter future for Britain.”

The NCfN will work with local schools, colleges and universities, such as University of Bristol and University of Cumbria, setting rigorous training standards and providing inspiration to local young people to take up careers in nuclear.

Funding will come from the £80m committed by Government towards the seven new National Colleges for industry, and be matched by cash and in-kind investment from employers.

Sellafield human resources director, Colin Reed said: “Sellafield is delighted to be part of the NCfN. The NDA and Sellafield are making substantial investments to grow the economy and develop West Cumbria as a global centre of nuclear excellence.

“The college will provide a source of qualification and curriculum development to feed the skills pipelines for the nuclear sector and its supply chain.”

EDF Energy chief executive Vincent de Rivaz said: “EDF Energy is proud to be at the heart of the UK’s new National College for Nuclear. The National College will play a vital role in developing skills across the industry, underpinning the UK’s nuclear renaissance.”