Craft – Welder

48 month programme

What is a Craft Welder Apprenticeship?

A Welder Apprentice trains to become a highly skilled craftsperson in the nuclear industry.

What will I be doing?

You will be trained to:

• Produce production welds using different welding methods such as MIG, TIG and MMA.
• Working in a challenging and rewarding industry in support of construction within the workshop / construction site.
• Supporting fabricators in the production of platforms, stairways and supporting structures as well as pipe fitters, producing pipework for the transfer of fluids.

You will need to wear personal protective equipment when working in active areas (such as full PVC suiting, gloves and respirators) and work in confined spaces or at heights.

What do I need to consider?

This is a four-year scheme where the first year will be spent learning a range of hands-on engineering skills.

Additionally, you will undertake a Level 2 Technical Certificate that will be delivered on a one day per week basis.

Years 2 to 4 of your training will be spent in the central workshops, on plant in the active area where you will work with skilled Welders.

It is important that you are a self-starter who can manage your own time and work independently, as well as in a team, in a physically demanding environment; you will also have a keen interest in learning an engineering trade within the nuclear industry.

As an integral part of your apprenticeship your progress will be monitored and assessed against the Apprenticeship requirements. You will compile an evidence folder, demonstrating your areas of learning with accredited certificates of completion for elements of your training.

Within the last six months of your apprenticeship you will undertake an End Point Assessment, where you will be expected to clearly demonstrate the knowledge, skills and behaviours acquired throughout your apprenticeship and be assessed by an independently appointed organisation.

Where will my training be delivered?

• 1st Year – training is delivered at our local off-site training facility.
• 2nd, 3rd & 4th Years – Site placement in central workshops at Sellafield.

What qualifications will I obtain? To check

• Level 3 Apprenticeship ST0852 Plate Welder
• Level 2 Diploma in Engineering Operations EAL
• Level 2 Award for Nuclear Industry Awareness (ANIA)

*Specific qualifications are subject to change and replaced with an equivalent

What are the entry requirements?

• Minimum of 3 GCSEs Grade 4 (Grade C) in Mathematics, English Language & 1 Science or Engineering subject.
• Functional Skills Level 2 will also be considered as equivalent to GCSE Grade 4 (Grade C). Other equivalent qualifications may be considered.

What are the requirements to do the role?

• You will need to wear personal protective equipment, necessary for work in active areas (such as full PVC suiting, gloves and respirators).
• Work in confined spaces or at heights.

Additional Requirements

• Candidates will be required to achieve appropriate security and medical clearances; these will be instigated on receiving a conditional offer of employment.