Nuclear Higher Apprentice Review

As a Nuclear Higher Apprentice, I rotated through 9 placements across several functions for the first three years of my scheme. For the last two years I'm in my Dimensional Management exit role, gathering the competencies for the Nuclear Scientist and Engineering Degree Apprenticeship Standard and developing in the role in which I will eventually exit.

Once a week, I attend Blackpool and Fylde College to study towards a Degree in Nuclear Engineering accredited by Lancaster University. I have also had the opportunity to attend multiple training courses such as; I Keep Submarine Safe, Nuclear Designated Area Passport & First Aid Training Level 3. My presentation skills have also developed.

Obviously I am biased, but I can not speak highly enough of the scheme. As an alternative to university, the social side of higher apprenticeships does suffer in comparison however not as much as one may think. There are several socials organised by the Early Careers population such as Christmas Nights Out, Pup Golf and Charity Football.

I feel the Nuclear Higher Apprenticeship is organised to a higher standard than the other Higher Apprenticeships offered within the business. All of our placements are organised over 3 years before we join the business. This plan is flexible however and can be tailored to suit an individual's professional interests and ambitions.

The business has a fantastic support network for both personal and professional issues. I've never had to use the personal support network but I'm well aware of it and wouldn’t hesitate to contact my line manger should an issue emerge. While in our placements, we have a placement manger to help us strive towards our objectives and a discipline manger to oversee our scheme at a higher level.

Blackpool and Fylde College offer lots of support academically. HELMs are available to grammatically check an assignments grammar before submission and the tutors never hesitate to reply to questions either in person or via email. As we only attend the college once a week and the fact it is two hours away, we are unable to make use of the social support the college offer.

My current FEng in Nuclear Engineering has helped my understanding of, not only the science behind a reactor, but the mechanical and electrical systems as well. The varied modules from Blackpool and Fylde College allow for a lot of diversity in the programme which suites the rotating nature of our scheme.

I've been able to join the Nuclear Institute and the Young Nuclear Safety Professionals Forum (a sub-group of the Safety Directors Forum). The YNSPF has given me the opportunity to work with other individuals in the early stages of their career at different nuclear companies. The business also encourages us to get involved with Stretch assignments.

Yes

I can't recommend the apprenticeship enough to those interested in the STEM subjects. While it takes an extra two years to earn your degree, the difference between earning and debt is close to £150,000 over three years. You'll also gain invaluable experience over the 5 years on the scheme that you couldn’t possibly get at university alone.

When applying, ensure you mention every major experience you've learned something from, regardless of how unimportant it may seem. It is also important to do some research on the company, both to impress your interviewers and to ensure the scheme you are applying for is right for you. You'll be required to give a presentation at the assessment centre, ensure you practise it as it is the one assessment in which you'll have sole control.