Bristol named as National College for Nuclear partner to combat future industry skills shortage

Business Minister, Matt Hancock has today (20 Mar) announced the four education providers named as partners in the National College for Nuclear — a virtual college specialising in training and development which forms a key part of the government’s strategy to address a skills shortage in the industry. The partnership will include a northern hub comprising Lakes College, Sellafield Ltd and the University of Cumbria, and a southern hub comprising Bridgwater College, EDF Energy and the University of Bristol.

The National College for Nuclear will develop its own employer-led curriculum and accreditation, driving the standards of training for the nuclear sector and developing clear, specialised nuclear engineering pathways between school and university.

Business Minister Matthew Hancock said: “It’s expected the nuclear industry will need 30,000 new employees over the next decade – and the Nuclear College will equip young people with the skills they need. Creating jobs and opportunities for local people is front and centre of our long-term economic plan to secure a brighter future for Britain.”

The Universities of Bristol and Cumbria will provide a complementary connection to the higher education sector, ensuring a pipeline through to the top level of science and engineering education.

Professor Judith Squires, Pro Vice-Chancellor for Education, added: "The University of Bristol is pleased to be involved with the creation of a National College for Nuclear. The South West Nuclear Hub at the University will provide an excellent opportunity to link the National College with established industry-relevant advanced teaching programmes, delivering world class scientists and engineers to fill the UK nuclear skills gap."