The first Magnox employees to gain their Level 3 NVQ qualifications in Nuclear Decommissioning were recently presented with their awards by Winfrith Site Director Michael Dunnett.

Bridgwater College staff Dave Bawler (Commercial Manager for Nuclear) and Ros Dawes (Account Manager for Magnox) joined the management team at Winfrith to recognise the achievements of employees Daniel Phillips and William Royan. Tony Hawes based at Harwell was unable to attend but was equally praised for being part of the first cohort to complete the qualification.

Dave Bawler explained,

“Both Dan and Bill deserve recognition for their achievements. They signed up for the NVQ programme just over a year ago and through dedication and commitment have completed the qualification in an exceptionally short timeframe. Bridgwater College is currently supporting Magnox employees at Harwell, Winfrith and Hinkley Point A sites to gain this nationally recognised nuclear qualification at Levels 2 and 3, and I have no doubt that seeing Dan and Bill complete their Level 3 will inspire others to do the same. It is always impressive to see a company like Magnox embrace training and support their employees.”

Michael Dunnett, Winfrith Closure Director said,

“We have worked closely with Bridgwater College for many years, and last year made a strategic decision to offer the opportunity to study for an NVQ to all members of our decommissioning staff. The College presented to approximately 40 employees, nine were selected to study from the Winfrith and Harwell sites. From that group, Dan, Bill and Tony are the first to gain this qualification.

“We are supporting employees with this NVQ and are already seeing the benefits in terms of the teams’ enhanced understanding and performance of their day to day roles. We are also very committed to ensuring that our staff hold nationally recognised qualifications which acknowledge their competency in a nuclear environment and will enhance their future employment opportunities when this project finishes.”

This sentiment was reiterated by employee Dan Philips who said,

“It has been challenging to gain the qualification whilst working, although the excellent support and funding offered by the College, my line manager and Magnox has been a huge help. The course has not only taught me a lot, but also demonstrates to any future employer that I am fully competent in my role. It has inspired me to train further, maybe on a management or leadership programme.”