Huge demand for EDF apprenticeship

London – More than 2000 youngsters have applied for just 52 places on EDF Energy’s engineering maintenance apprenticeship programme for 2013, The scheme includes training at a Royal Naval base and at a nuclear power station.

This year, 2038 people applied to join the programme. Following an initial shortlisting, this year’s applicants took a series of tests at an EDF Energy assessment centre. Final interviews at power stations around the country are now underway.

The first two years are spent training at HMS Sultan in Gosport, near Portsmouth, home of the Defence School of Marine Engineering and the Royal Naval Air Engineering and Survival School. They then head to their base power stations in England and Scotland, for the final two years.

Ian Williams, EDF Energy programme manager, said: “The number of applicants this year has exceeded our expectations. Hopefuls have just been through our assessment centre and the final decisions are just weeks away.

As well as a salary ranging from around £9,865 in the first year to £18,623 by year four, accommodation and meals are paid for in the first two-year residential part of the programme.

“It’s hard work but perfect for me,” said Jack Friel, who will be based at Heysham 2 power station in Lancashire, is heading towards completing the first year of his apprenticeship.

“The apprenticeship is a brilliant opportunity for anyone looking to work in the energy sector and future career prospects are fantastic,” he added.

Trainees who complete the four-year scheme, are awarded an advanced modern apprenticeship certificate in engineering – they will have achieved a BTEC and an NVQ Level 3, and can study towards an HNC (Higher National Certificate).

They will then be encouraged to continue their development by taking degrees in engineering.

EDF Energy is also now working with three partner colleges to deliver a programme of study that will help young people develop the right skills to apply for an EDF Energy Engineering Apprenticeship.

The new full-time NVQ level 2 programme, which is funded and supported by EDF Energy, starts in September and is designed for individuals who are dedicated to a future working in energy industry.