The Engineering Apprenticeship That Took Me Even Further Than I Expected
When I was deciding what to do after school, university never felt like the right fit for me. The idea of spending several years studying before entering the workplace just didn’t align with what I wanted.
Gaining practical experience, earning while I learned, and building my career straightaway resonated with me far more. In hindsight, following my instinct and pursuing a Level 5 Nuclear Technician (Electrical) apprenticeship was one of the best decisions I could have made for myself – and my future career.
Not only did it lead to a job at Hinkley Point, a place that had fascinated me since I visited the site on work experience while I was at school, but it also grew my confidence and gave me access to opportunities and experiences in ways I had never anticipated.
Learning on the Job
I completed a Level 5 Nuclear Technician Apprenticeship specialising in Electrical Engineering, combining classroom learning with practical experience.
One of the things I enjoyed most was being able to apply what I learned straight away. At college, we had access to industry-standard equipment, including flow rigs and a reactor simulator, where we could carry out fault-finding exercises.
This meant that what I learned didn't stay in the classroom. Whether it was nuclear safety principles, project management concepts or technical problem-solving, I was able to apply that theoretical knowledge daily while working with decommissioning processes.
Today, I work as an Assistant Engineer within the High Active Waste System Engineering Team at Nuclear Restoration Services, supporting systems that safely process and manage waste at Hinkley Point A. It's a varied role where I use analytical and problem-solving skills to monitor systems, investigate issues and support engineering projects.
I truly believe that having the opportunity to put theory into practice from day one has helped me develop both technically and professionally at a much faster pace, leading me to this role.
The Surprising Confidence Boost
Perhaps the biggest surprise of all has been how much my confidence has grown because of my apprenticeship. While I expected my technical skills to develop, I hadn’t anticipated how quickly I would mature by taking on real responsibilities and working alongside experienced professionals. Having a built-in support network of colleagues and fellow apprentices also gave me the confidence to navigate a completely new professional environment.
As a result, I have become far more comfortable communicating with different people, contributing my ideas, and stepping outside my comfort zone.
Looking back, I have genuinely surprised myself. Through my apprenticeship, I have visited Parliament twice, helped set up a STEM group at the site, and spoken at several schools and careers events. A few years ago, I never would have imagined I would have the confidence to achieve everything I have.
These experiences have been just as valuable as the qualification itself. They have helped me grow personally, and discover strengths I didn’t know I had.
What’s Next?
One of the best things about choosing an apprenticeship is that the opportunities don't stop when you qualify.
My employer is now supporting me to complete a bachelor's degree alongside my role. What I value most about the apprenticeship route is that it has allowed me to gain a degree, build industry experience, and develop my career simultaneously. At the same time, my role offers a great deal of stability, as the decommissioning of the site will take several years.
If there's one thing I'd tell someone considering their next step, it's that university isn't the only way to gain qualifications and kickstart a successful career.
My apprenticeship has given me practical experience, valuable qualifications and a career I'm passionate about. Most importantly, it has helped me become far more confident than I ever thought possible.
For students exploring their options, don't be afraid to choose a different path. An apprenticeship could help you build a career, gain qualifications and discover strengths you never knew you had. Explore your options and see where an apprenticeship could take you. If you’re not sure about your next steps and need support, advice or someone to talk things through with, the National Careers Service can help. Please visit: https://nationalcareers.service.gov.uk
