HRH The Princess Royal meets future generation of nuclear experts honing their skills in Derby

HRH The Princess Royal visited the Nuclear Skills Academy (NSA) in Derby to find out more about the first-of-its-kind training centre and to meet the apprentices at the forefront of the future of the nuclear industry.

The Nuclear Skills Academy was opened in September 2022 by the University of Derby and Rolls-Royce Submarines, with support from local and industry partners, and aims to sustain nuclear capability within the UK’s submarines programme by creating a dedicated pipeline of talent at the start of their careers.

During the visit, which took place during National Apprenticeship Week (February 10-16), HRH The Princess Royal met with staff from the University of Derby and Rolls-Royce staff, as well as a number of apprentices from a range of programmes to discuss their experience of studying at the NSA and to see the high-tech facilities that students learn in.

A plaque was also unveiled to commemorate The Princess Royal’s visit.

Professor Kathryn Mitchell CBE DL, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Derby, said:

“We are extremely proud of the Nuclear Skills Academy and our long-standing, award-winning partnership with Rolls-Royce.

“As an applied university of today and for tomorrow, it is critical that we equip the future workforce with the knowledge, skills and experience required to meet the needs of our industries. The Nuclear Skills Academy is an outstanding example of working in partnership to deliver excellence.  We are delighted for the opportunity to showcase our innovative and future-focused work to HRH The Princess Royal.”

Steve Carlier, Rolls-Royce Submarines President, said:

“We’re incredibly proud of our Nuclear Skills Academy as it develops the skills of the next generation of nuclear experts. It is a great example of collaboration between industry and academia and provides a critical pipeline of talent that will soon be supporting the UK’s submarine programme, helping keep the nation safe.”

During the visit, HRH The Princess Royal was introduced to colleagues from the University’s College of Science and Engineering to highlight how the Nuclear Experimental Research Facility (NERF), located at the NSA, is bringing benefits to the sector, followed by a short demonstration of equipment.

She also witnessed a Lathe and Milling and Hand Fitting workshop take place with Level 4 Technician Apprentices. Showcasing the variety of equipment used and the essential need to know and understand both manual and automated work practice, the apprentices discussed their experiences on the technician pathway – a new addition to the Rolls-Royce Submarines workforce in 2022.

A welding workshop was also demonstrated with Level 3 apprentices, where they highlighted the innovative facilities they use during their studies. Following this, HRH The Princess Royal met with groups of apprentices from a range of programmes and levels and spoke to them about their experiences and benefits of studying at the NSA.

Olivia Marshall, Nuclear Engineering Technician Apprentice, said:

“Building towards a career in nuclear and learning both on my course and through my work with Rolls-Royce Submarines has been incredible. The nuclear industry is offering life-long careers across the UK, especially in the Midlands, whilst contributing to a reduction in greenhouse gas emissions and working towards a better future for our planet. It’s amazing to be part of this exciting and important industry.”

Professor Warren Manning, Provost – Innovation and Research at the University of Derby, who co-hosted the visit, said:

“Developed at pace, the Nuclear Skills Academy has brought together leading experts in industry and academia. The academy is going from strength to strength in delivering skills for the future workforce of not just our region but nationally and globally.

“The nuclear sector is rapidly growing and requires a skilled workforce in order to succeed, and we are delighted to be playing a key role in driving this forward.”

The Nuclear Skills Academy is supported by Derby City Council, Nuclear Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre, D2N2 (now EMCCA) and the National College for Nuclear.

National Apprenticeship Week runs from February 10-16, 2025. The theme of this year’s event is ‘Skills for Life’.

Find out more about the NSA.

Find out more about Apprenticeships.