Rolls-Royce Submarines has opened its new Nuclear Skills Academy where it has started training up its next generation of engineers.
The Infinity Park academy has welcomed the first 200 apprentices who will eventually go on to play their parts in boosting the country’s nuclear capability.
The engineering giant says the academy is the first of its kind and will create a dedicated pipeline of talent for the industry.
It has been supported by industry and education experts, including the Nuclear Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre, the National College for Nuclear, the University of Derby and Derby City Council, giving apprentices access to a range of courses and mentors throughout their apprenticeships.
More than 1,200 people applied for the initial 200 places.
Rolls-Royce Submarines president Steve Carlier said: “We are thrilled by the levels of interest in these apprenticeships, and it highlights how attractive a career in the nuclear sector really is.
“With the growing demand for clean, carbon-free energy and with our submarines contracts with the MoD likely to sustain us into the next century, this could be a job for life for our new apprentices.
“Having started with Rolls-Royce as an apprentice myself and being born and bred in Derby, the launch of the Nuclear Skills Academy is especially exciting for me.
“I’m delighted that we are leading the way in developing nuclear talent for the submarines enterprise and proud that it will all be done in Derby.”
The new academy has funding to provide 200 apprentices each year with nuclear education across four different courses for at least the next 10 years.
Andrew Storer, who is responsible for leadership and strategy of the Nuclear AMRC, said: “We need to work together to tackle skills shortages which affect the whole nuclear sector.
“The organisations backing the Nuclear Skills Academy will ensure that apprentices have the best training and support and develop the skills to deliver the UK’s commitments for low-carbon power and national security.
“As a former Derby apprentice, I am very proud that we are helping set a new standard for training which could be rolled out across the sector.”
Courses are accredited through the University of Derby and National College for Nuclear.
Helen Higgs, who chairs of the board of directors of the National College for Nuclear, said they were delighted to be able to play a vital role in its creation and future development.
The apprenticeships are spread across engineering, manufacturing and business and are able to access fully funded, further and higher education qualifications, with hands-on practical work experience within the business.
The Nuclear Skills Academy is housed in the former iHub building and it is hoped it will position the East Midlands as the centre of nuclear excellence in the UK.
Derby City Council leader Coun Chris Poulter said: “Additional funding worth £1.3 million has been secured from Innovate UK to help fund bespoke training equipment and IT facilities for apprentices at the new training centre.
“The skills academy will also support key employers in the city and help to secure future talent in years to come.”
Rolls-Royce has provided the power for the Royal Navy’s nuclear submarines from its base in Raynesway, Derby, for 60 years, ensuring the power to protect the UK’s interests at home and further afield.
Applications for 2023-24 academic intake open in October.
