For the sixth consecutive year, Year 2 nuclear apprentices from EDF and NRS have completed a four‑week technical training programme at the Fleet Air Arm Museum, Yeovilton, an innovative partnership between EDF, the National College for Nuclear and Clean Energy, Cannington College, and the Fleet Air Arm Museum.
This immersive programme takes apprentices out of their usual nuclear environment and places them within a highly technical aviation setting. By working directly with high‑powered aircraft systems, they gain valuable insight into complex engineering challenges. The experience enables them to explore what can go right, what can go wrong, and, crucially, how to diagnose and resolve issues in high‑consequence, real‑world scenarios.
Over the four weeks, apprentices build advanced skills in maintenance, condition monitoring, problem‑solving, and engineering decision‑making. The programme culminates in team presentations delivered to EDF managers and coordinators on the museum’s iconic stage beneath Concorde, an annual highlight attended by around 100 guests.
This long‑standing relationship was recently recognised with a Collaboration Award, celebrating the collective efforts of EDF, the National College for Nuclear and Clean Energy, and the Fleet Air Arm Museum in delivering a transformative and sector‑leading training experience.
This opportunity continues to demonstrate the power of real‑world, cross‑sector training. By placing apprentices in an environment where precision, safety, and engineering excellence are paramount, we give them the confidence and capability to take on the challenges our sector faces today and in the future. It’s a unique learning model that consistently brings out the very best in our apprentices.
Paul Goss
Assistant Principal of Clean Energy
It’s been great to see another year of collaboration between the Fleet Air Arm Museum and the College, and to work with another fantastic group of apprentices. When this project first began in 2020, we didn’t know that it would grow into the award‑winning initiative that it is today.
We look forward to growing and evolving this partnership into 2027 and beyond!
Elliott Bailey
Public Programming Manager at the Fleet Air Arm Museum
This enduring partnership continues to strengthen technical training opportunities across the sector, equipping apprentices with the confidence, competence, and real‑world perspective needed to thrive as the next generation of nuclear and engineering professionals.
For more information, please contact the UCS College Group Marketing team via marketing@ucscollegegroup.ac.uk or on 01278 441834.