Derby becomes first university in the Midlands to join National College for Nuclear as Approved Provider

The University of Derby has joined the National College for Nuclear (NCfN) as an Approved Provider to deliver high quality qualifications in support of the nuclear sector.

This builds upon a collaboration between the University, the NCfN, Rolls-Royce Submarines Ltd, Nuclear AMRC and Derby City Council to launch the Nuclear Skills Academy – aimed at tackling skills shortages and building capacity within the UK’s submarine programme.

As the newest approved provider – and first University in the Midlands – to join the network, Derby has become part of the NCfN federated model – a partnership between industry employers, regulators, skills bodies, and training providers to support the delivery of nuclear missions.

The flagship NCfN is one of the National Colleges created to support the delivery of major infrastructure projects in the UK and forms the cornerstone of the Government’s response to nuclear skills provision. The purpose of the NCfN is to deliver through its networks, assured curriculum, aligned with industry demands, that delivers and maintains the expert workforce needed by the sector.

Through the Membership, the University will benefit from being part of a national network of support, expertise and influence.

Professor Warren Manning, Provost – Innovation & Research at the University of Derby, said: “We are delighted to have joined the National College for Nuclear as an Approved Provider, which demonstrates a mark of excellence for the quality of academic provision we offer at Derby.  

“Joining the NCfN Northern and Southern Hubs reflects the growth and increasing impact of the nuclear industry across the Midlands and we are proud to have joined as a key partner.

“As a university we are committed to continuing to develop our expertise in the nuclear industry and delivering a curriculum that is aligned to sector needs. Through the delivery of the Nuclear Skills Academy, we are already closely working with the NCfN and are looking forward to further strengthening our partnership with the organisation.”

Helen Higgs, Chair of the NCfN, said: “We are delighted to have the University of Derby as part of the family. At such an exciting and dynamic time for the nuclear and zero carbon sectors, we are thrilled to build upon the NCfN network with such a world-leading institution such as the University of Derby.

“We look forward to working closely with the team there to further build upon our ability to build a competent and agile workforce for the sector.”