The UK’s clean energy revolution has entered an exciting new phase with the launch of two innovative nuclear training initiatives designed to prepare the next generation of professionals for the rapidly expanding fusion and nuclear sectors.
The UK Atomic Energy Authority (UKAEA) and Manufacturing Technology Centre (MTC) Training have teamed up to deliver two new apprenticeships – Nuclear Health Physics Monitor and Nuclear Operative (Decommissioning).
These nuclear training programmes aim to strengthen the nation’s technical workforce and create new opportunities for learners from all backgrounds.
Chris Rooum, Business Development Director at MTC Training, explained: “As the country undergoes a nuclear renaissance and starts to introduce a new generation of nuclear power technologies, demand for skilled professionals in this sector is expected to rise even further.
“By collaborating with UKAEA to design and offer these apprenticeships, we can provide the industry with a future workforce to support the clean energy transition in the UK.”
A crucial time for the UK’s nuclear and fusion sectors
With Sizewell C approved and £2.5bn committed to fusion in the 2025 Spending Review, the UK’s nuclear and fusion industries are at a defining moment.
According to the UK Government’s Clean Energy Jobs Plan, meeting the twin goals of the Clean Energy Superpower Mission could nearly double the UK’s clean energy workforce between 2023 and 2030.
To help meet this demand, UKAEA and MTC Training are expanding their nuclear training offer at the Oxfordshire Advanced Skills (OAS) Training Centre at UKAEA’s Culham Campus.
Since its opening in 2019, the OAS centre has delivered high-quality nuclear engineering training to more than 400 apprentices.
The new programmes mark a major step forward in ensuring that the UK builds and sustains the expertise needed to achieve its clean energy ambitions.
Real-world learning at a world-leading research site
Developed in close collaboration with UKAEA experts, the new apprenticeships are carefully designed to reflect the realities of modern nuclear and fusion workplaces.
The Health Physics Monitor programme covers essential topics such as selecting and using radiation monitoring instruments, identifying and applying safety control measures, and maintaining compliance with strict legislative standards.
Meanwhile, the Nuclear Operative apprenticeship focuses on safely managing and packaging waste materials, assembling and dismantling plant equipment, and operating within protective environments such as pressurised suits and respirators.
Apprentices will also benefit from hands-on experience at Culham Campus, home to world-leading fusion research facilities.
This environment offers learners invaluable exposure to the technologies and safety practices shaping the next generation of nuclear energy.
The initiative is supported by UKAEA’s Fusion Opportunities in Skills, Training, Education & Research (FOSTER) programme, part of the Government’s Fusion Futures investment to develop a strong, sustainable skills pipeline for the UK’s clean energy sector.
Nick Walkden, Head of Fusion Skills and FOSTER Programme Director, added: “UKAEA is committed to expanding the qualified workforce in the fusion sector.
“We also recognise there are several areas where there is a need across multiple adjacent sectors, which makes establishing and delivering these courses more cost-effective and efficient.
Having these courses at Culham has many advantages. UKAEA has a wide range of experienced experts who have worked with MTC Training to develop the courses.
“And of course, we have facilities for students to get first-hand experience in an industrial environment, along with the intangible benefits of learning alongside their peers from other companies and organisations.
“Finally, we are creating opportunities for new learning pathways in an area of the country where these haven’t traditionally been available.
“We’ve been thrilled by the reception that these new courses have had from industry and are looking forward to growing our skills offerings in the future.”
Expanding the UK’s nuclear training pathways
Beyond the new apprenticeships, UKAEA and MTC Training are also planning specialist nuclear training courses in Nuclear Welding Inspection and Nuclear TIG (Tungsten Inert Gas) Welding.
A Level 3 Engineering Maintenance Technician programme will launch in September 2025, and a Level 6 Nuclear Science apprenticeship is currently in development.
These initiatives will provide a comprehensive progression route for learners and professionals seeking long-term careers in the nuclear industry.
Cultivating the next generation of nuclear expertise
Developing the UK’s nuclear and fusion talent base is critical to achieving long-term energy security and net-zero goals.
Fusion and nuclear power are central to delivering reliable, low-carbon energy for future generations – but this vision depends on a skilled, adaptable workforce.
By investing in advanced nuclear training, the UK is future-proofing its energy sector, reducing dependence on international expertise, and inspiring a new wave of engineers, scientists, and technicians.
