At the epicenter of Britain’s transition to clean energy, Hinkley Point C is more than just a mere power station under construction—it stands as a beacon of opportunity. The project has already helped train over 1,500 apprentices across more than 70 diverse schemes, significantly shaping the future of energy and the careers of thousands of individuals.
Andrew Cockroft, the head of stakeholder relations and social impact at Hinkley Point C, underscores the significance of the apprenticeship program as a commitment to building a skilled workforce and leaving a lasting legacy. “We’ve got incredible opportunities on this project for apprentices,” he says. “From T-Levels to supported traineeships, there’s something for everyone—whether they’re fresh out of school or looking for a career change.”
Bridget Phillipson, the Secretary of State for Education, visited the site during National Apprenticeship Week, amplified the program’s value, emphasizing the immense scale and ambition of Hinkley Point C. She highlighted how the government’s recent reforms will make apprenticeships even more accessible.
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A pivotal factor behind Hinkley Point C’s apprenticeship success is its close partnership with Bridgwater and Taunton College. Reflecting on this, Andrew explains the collaborative relationship’s contribution to creating new centers of excellence and developing new courses that benefit the local community.
Bridget echoes this, noting the synergy between education providers and employers and its crucial contribution to ensuring apprentices are industry-ready with the most up-to-date skills. She believes that this project is not only of local significance but also critical for the UK’s energy infrastructure.
In recent times, the government has reformed entry requirements, making it possible for an additional 10,000 apprentices to qualify each year. The changes around English and maths have been widely welcomed by businesses, ensuring that practical skills trump stringent academic barriers.
Hinkley Point C’s commitment to the local community is evident, with over 70% of its apprentices hailing from Somerset. The project is dedicated to building a workforce that not only puts the county on the map but also facilitates the UK’s transition to net zero.
As the UK’s Plan for Change emphasizes apprenticeships as central to economic growth, new training schemes have emerged in various key industries. The contribution of apprenticeships to England’s economy has almost doubled since 2018, underpinning their growing role in shaping the country’s skilled workforce.
Apprenticeships extend beyond traditional academic routes and offer diverse career prospects that span from construction and nuclear engineering to catering. Encouraging young people and career changers alike to explore these opportunities plays a pivotal role in ensuring a robust and diversified skilled workforce for the future.
As Hinkley Point C continues to grow, its apprenticeship schemes will expand, further solidifying the South West’s position as a hub for high-skilled jobs in the clean energy revolution. With several upcoming projects in the region, including floating offshore wind farms and new battery plants, the area is poised to play a pivotal role in the UK’s energy landscape.
Powering the Future: Max Bosley’s Nuclear Engineering Journey
Max Bosley, a 23-year-old from Yeovil, Somerset, never envisioned himself working in the nuclear industry. His journey from a field trip to Hinkley Point B to an advanced degree apprenticeship at Hinkley Point C exemplifies a transformative career path, positioning him for a promising future in nuclear power.
Inspired by a visit to Hinkley Point B during a physics field trip, Max’s exploration of career options led him to an apprenticeship with EDF. Four years later, he is completing his degree apprenticeship, merging academic learning with hands-on experience, and actively contributing to the groundbreaking energy project.
Max’s experience underscores the invaluable nature of apprenticeships, offering a unique blend of academic and practical learning experiences. His current research project focuses on improving maintenance procedures, contributing to the long-term efficiency of Hinkley Point’s main control systems.
Transitioning from A-levels to the high-stakes environment at Hinkley Point had its challenges, but Max’s perseverance and proactive approach ensured his entry into the program. His journey epitomizes the transformative power of apprenticeships and serves as a testament to the opportunities they offer.
Letty Smith’s Trailblazing Path in Project Controls
Letty Smith’s journey into project controls at Hinkley Point C represents a distinctive approach to career development. Having started her apprenticeship at 16, Letty has progressed from a Level 3 apprenticeship to a Level 6 degree apprenticeship, acquiring invaluable experience and qualifications along the way.
Her role in project controls encompasses a diverse range of responsibilities, from planning and scheduling to risk management and change management. Letty’s journey challenges outdated perceptions about apprenticeships and highlights the burgeoning opportunities they offer for personal and professional growth.
As a young woman in a male-dominated field, Letty’s unwavering dedication and enthusiasm demonstrate the transformative impact of apprenticeships in empowering individuals to forge their own paths. Her story serves as an inspiration to those seeking non-traditional routes to career advancement.