Centered across two hubs, the Southern Hub of the NCfN is based at the Cannington campus of Bridgwater & Taunton College and will work closely with the NCfN Northern Hub, based at Lakes College, Cumbria.

The state-of-the-art training facility at Bridgwater & Taunton College includes specially designed infrastructure and equipment that will ensure world-class training and skills development across a range of advanced and higher technical skills levels and degree level courses.

Students will have access to virtual reality environments and design facilities, augmented reality resources, a reactor simulator, shared learning spaces including a lecture theatre and meeting rooms alongside computer-equipped training rooms. Social study space and sports facilities are available, with further plans for development including the provision of student accommodation.

Andy Berry, Principal of Bridgwater & Taunton College, said, “These facilities and courses have been designed in partnership with the nuclear industry to meet industry requirements and to ensure students are equipped with the skills they need to become the best they can be. The skills and qualifications they will achieve here will put them on a fast track for a successful career in the nuclear sector.”

Paul Goss, Head of National College for Nuclear Southern Hub, added, “This is a real step change for learners, who will study an innovative curriculum specifically designed to ensure they are highly sought after when they graduate from College. We know that there will be high demand for the skills our students will gain, and they will have the potential to become an important part of the nuclear industry in the future.”

Stuart Crooks, EDF Energy’s Hinkley Point C Managing Director, said, “EDF Energy is proud to be a partner in the National College for Nuclear. It will support the new nuclear renaissance in Britain and is a prime example of industrial strategy in action. The Southern Hub in Somerset will stand alongside the excellent training facilities at Bridgwater & Taunton College which are already helping to provide essential skills needed for Britain’s economy. Together they show the big and positive impact new nuclear is having on jobs, skills and industrial capacity.”

The building was officially opened by Barbara Jones, HR Director, EDF New Build, EDF Energy, who unveiled the building’s plaque following speeches and tours of the brand new facility.

To find out more about the National College for Nuclear contact the Head of National College for Nuclear – Southern Hub, Paul Goss at GOSSP@btc.ac.uk.