Magnox apprentices based at Bridgwater & Taunton College’s (BTC) National College for Nuclear celebrated fantastic results this month, with the first cohort of Magnox Nuclear Operative apprentices all gaining a Distinction.

Nuclear Operatives are responsible for the hands-on operation of plant systems and equipment on a nuclear facility and associated off site plants. Apprentices learnt core skills, knowledge and behaviours required for this role.

The NCfN@BTC houses purpose built facilities specifically for the Nuclear sector. Using an innovative combination of physical, augmented, and virtual reality to recreate a ‘live’ nuclear installation within its walls, enabling students to experience the ‘inside’ of a nuclear power plant and experiment with different outcomes as part of their learning, in ways that could not be countenanced in a live installation.

The Magnox apprentices were the first cohort to undertake this qualification at the NCfN@BTC, making them trail blazers in their field, and setting high standards for those following in their footsteps.

Andy Berry, Principal and CEO said;

I am delighted with these results, they demonstrate the hard work and dedication of the apprentices and the strength and benefits of developing partnerships with employers such as Magnox.

He continued;

When you couple this with the teaching in our state-of-the-art facilities it’s a winning formula. I’m looking forward to seeing where these apprentices progress in their careers.

John Vickerman, Magnox Chief People Officer, said;

We are delighted with the results achieved by this, first ever, cohort. It is a testament to their hard work and the collaborative partnership with the College. Having a well-trained workforce of the future is vital to our business and we are taking steps to ensure skills gaps are being closed as well as increasing diversity within in the industry. This partnership is an important part of Magnox’s national strategy. We offer a range of opportunities, as well as degree level apprenticeships, in partnership with NCfN.

Matt Tudor, Director of Commercial Development, Strategy & Partnerships, said;

We are very proud of our response to the skills requirements, by working closely with employers such as Magnox we can design and develop curriculum that addresses industry needs and supports the UK’s skills clean energy agenda. It’s wonderful to see the global career opportunities which are seeded here in Bridgwater.

For more information about this course please click here.

If you would like to know more about studying at the National College for Nuclear@BTC , come along to one of the College’s open events in the new year. Visit the Events page to find out more.