I joined Frazer-Nash in September 2025 and am undertaking a Nuclear Engineer and Scientist Degree Apprenticeship, studying at the University of Derby.
I knew I wanted to choose an apprenticeship as I wanted to get into the world of work as soon as I could and begin working on meaningful projects as soon as possible. An apprenticeship has allowed me to have a nice balance of University theory work, and exposure to real world projects, enabling me to build my skill set and experience.
As a first year Nuclear Engineering apprentice, my typical day could either be at the University of Derby, or the Nuclear Skills Academy. The University of Derby is where I attend lectures which are relevant to my field of work, preparing me for when I begin working full-time. For example, we are currently learning about materials and how their structure contributes to their properties and characteristics. When I am not in lecture, I will be in self-study, deepening my understanding, and applying my knowledge to real engineering problems.
If I am at the Nuclear Skills academy, I will be doing hands-on work. This could be either Milling, Electrical work (i.e. Soldering and Domestic Wiring) or TIG Welding, just to name a few. The Nuclear Skills Academy is where I develop my practical capabilities as a developing engineer, as understanding how different components get made, helps me better understand what I am working on.
Although I only started in September, I have developed multiple different skills. For example, the Nuclear Skills Academy has helped me develop my logical thinking, by making me critically think about what I am doing. University has helped me develop time management skills and my teamwork skills, both of which are crucial in engineering. Furthermore, when I have been in the office, I have had the ability to develop my professional skills as well, such as report writing, communication skills and the ability to work with new people. I have no doubt my skills will continue to grow throughout the apprenticeship, especially once I begin working more on projects in the office, where I can learn from the best in the field.
I would say that my proudest achievement so far is my progress at the Nuclear Skills Academy. I had never done milling or electrical work before, so I was very happy when I managed to pick it up quickly and complete assessments within a week of first starting one of these activities.
My number one piece of advice to anyone considering an apprenticeship would be think and deduce exactly what your aims and aspirations are for the future. If you want to experience the University life, then I wouldn't suggest an apprenticeship. However, if from the get-go of your career you want to work on real meaningful projects, develop your skills in a professional environment, meet very talented individuals and begin to make a name for yourself in a field which you are interested in, then an apprenticeship is for you!
