The South West Nuclear Hub for Nuclear Skills, sponsored by Babcock International Group (Babcock), the defence company, and EDF, has…
Our nuclear sector doesn't exist in one place - it thrives in communities across the UK, each with its own unique strengths, challenges and opportunities. That's why we've launched Nuclear Skills Hubs: collaborative networks that bring together employers, education providers, and communities to tackle skills challenges at a local level.
Think of these hubs as the engines of skills development in key nuclear regions and nations. They're where big national plans translate into practical action that makes sense for local people and businesses. Whether you're an employer looking for local talent, a training provider wanting to align your courses with industry needs, or someone interested in nuclear careers in your area, the Nuclear Skills Hubs are your go-to resource.
Hub Status: Active
Key Areas: Ayrshire, Aberdeenshire, Glasgow, Edinburgh, Highlands
Nuclear Focus: Civil, clean energy, decommissioning, defence, research
NSEC Sponsor Organisations: Babcock Ltd and NRS
Focused on Scotland's unique nuclear landscape, this hub unites stakeholders to support the workforce in civil, defence, and decommissioning activities. It aims to empower a diverse and inclusive workforce, reinforcing Scotland's crucial role in the UK's energy security, national security, and net-zero goals.
Current priorities:
Hub Status: Active
Key Areas: Cumbria, Lancashire, Cheshire
Nuclear Focus: Submarines, power generation, decommissioning
NSEC Sponsor Organisations: BAE Systems and NDA
The North West is home to some of the UK's most significant nuclear assets, from Sellafield to the submarine-building facilities at Barrow-in-Furness. Our skills hub here brings together major employers, SMEs, and education providers across the region to develop the substantial workforce needed for both defence and civil programmes.
Current priorities:
Hub Status: Active
Key Areas: Somerset, Devon, Cornwall, Gloucestershire, Dorset, Wiltshire, Hampshire, Berkshire, Oxfordshire
Nuclear Focus: Clean energy, defence, research
NSEC Sponsor Organisations: Babcock International, EDF
In the South-West, there are skill shortages in both ‘Nuclear Skills’ and ‘Skills for Nuclear’, which requires a regional approach to the expansion of enabling bodies. Demand is predicated on a strong Nuclear defence presence in Devonport, Aldermaston and Bristol, and Civil Nuclear activity from sites such as Hinckley Point C, which is currently under construction. The South West hub connects the region's nuclear employers with colleges, universities, and training providers to build a sustainable pipeline of skilled people.
Current priorities:
Hub Status: Active
Key Areas: include areas covered by the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) and East Midlands Combined County Authority (EMCCA) with wider areas under consideration
Nuclear Focus: Civil, defence, research
NSEC Sponsor Organisations: Rolls-Royce Submarines
The Midlands hub leverages the region's manufacturing expertise and engineering heritage to support nuclear supply chain development, with a particular focus on advanced manufacturing and specialist engineering skills.
Current priorities:
Looking to develop your workforce? The Nuclear Skills Hubs can help you:
Want to ensure your courses are meeting the needs of the nuclear industry? Our Nuclear Skills Hubs provide:
Each Nuclear Skills Hub operates as a collaborative network with its own steering group of local employers and education providers. While they're all part of the Nuclear Skills Plan, they have the flexibility to address region-specific challenges and opportunities.
Our hubs focus on:
Whether you're an employer, education provider, or other stakeholder in a nuclear region or nation, there are many ways to get involved with your Regional Skills Hub:
