30 March 2009: The National Skills Academy for Nuclear with industry employer participation from AWE Aldermaston, British Energy, Sellafield Ltd and Urenco in conjunction with Cogent Skills Sector Council (SSC) and GENII Engineering and Technology Training have developed a “nuclear awareness” programme that will enable individuals to achieve a Level 2 qualification from the Awarding Body PAA\VQ-SET.
The Award, which has been accredited by Ofqual, has been designed by the nuclear industry to enable individuals new to, or who have recently joined the nuclear sector, to gain a foundation level of understanding of the nuclear industry covering key aspects of history, conventional safety, nuclear safety, operations, waste management and security requirements.
The Award is ideal for Apprentices, Graduates and other non nuclear sector personnel who are looking to gain employment in the nuclear sector. It is equally suitable for current nuclear employers who wish to gain a nationally recognised qualification for the experience and knowledge they have.
Delivery of the Award teaching will be via the Skills Academy’s regional quality assured provider network or alternatively, individuals can complete the training online. Following completion of training candidates will sit an examination to achieve the Award.
Quality assured Providers offering delivery of the Award will be appearing on our website in the near future. Training course delivery or online learning will be available from July 2009 with Examination of the Award scheduled in September/October 2009.
Jean Llewellyn, Chief Executive of the National Skills Academy for Nuclear said;
“This is a really important development for the Skills Academy. The dynamic partnership which was used in developing this qualification truly reflects our employer-led approach. The nuclear industry will, in the very near future, face unprecedented demand for people with the right skills to support the nuclear sector. In the current climate of economic uncertainty the industry recognises that we are fortunate to have such an enviable problem but it is critical that we have high quality skills development processes in place to ensure a safe and effective workforce.”
Ann J Randall, Chief Executive, PAA\VQ-SET;
“PAA\VQ-SET was delighted to have been involved in the development and awarding of this unique qualification for the Nuclear Industry. We have a proud history of developing new qualifications that demonstrates employers’ commitment to high quality skills development for their people. We look forward to working with the Skills Academy and the Nuclear Sector to provide accreditation of their emerging skills’ needs.”
If you are interested in finding out more about the Award contact Roland Fletcher, National Skills Academy Nuclear on 01900 898120 or enquiries@nuclear.nsacademy.co.uk
If you are interested in undertaking the Award please register your interest via the Skills Academy website: www.nuclear.nsacademy.co.uk/form/award-nuclear-awareness