The Nuclear Skills Plan is helping to create new pathways into the nuclear sector, supporting talented students to develop the skills needed for the workforce of the future.
This autumn, eight students began their university studies as the third cohort of the Nuclear Sponsorship Scheme, with sponsorship from the Ministry of Defence (MoD) and Rolls-Royce Submarines. Since the scheme launched in 2024, 57 students have joined the programme.
Managed by Cogent Skills Employment Services, a delivery partner of the Nuclear Skills Plan, the scheme provides support throughout the student journey, from attraction and recruitment to work placement coordination and ongoing support. Its targeted approach also includes reaching students from lower socio-economic backgrounds.
Creating opportunities
Students in the latest cohort come from a range of backgrounds and locations and are studying subjects including Chemical Engineering, Computer Science, Electrical Engineering and Chemistry at universities including Warwick, Birmingham, Liverpool and Nottingham.
One of the students already benefiting from the scheme is Hayat Nur, who is studying Biochemistry. In a recent case study, Hayat shares how the scheme has supported her university journey and opened up new opportunities for the future.
Building skills for the future
Through collaboration between government, industry and delivery partners, the Nuclear Sponsorship Scheme is helping students build the skills and experience that can support future careers in the nuclear sector, while contributing to the longer-term development of the nuclear workforce.
Commenting on the latest cohort, James Willcocks, Project Lead said:
Reflecting on the programme’s continued growth, Chloe Barrow, Nuclear Careers Programme Manager said:
The third cohort marks another step in building a diverse pipeline of future talent and creating opportunities for more people to develop rewarding careers in the nuclear sector.
Find out more about the Nuclear Sponsorship Scheme and the wider work of the Nuclear Skills Plan.
