Sizewell C has welcomed its first cohort of full-time work experience students – giving them a glimpse of work at one of the region’s largest infrastructure projects.
A group of 16 to 19-year-olds from East Coast College in Lowestoft took part in a week-long programme of activities at the nuclear power station, gaining hands-on experience across several areas of the project.
Students worked alongside a variety of Sizewell C teams, including engineering, nuclear safety and communications.
It comes as part of Sizewell C’s Accelerator Programme, designed to bridge the gap between education and industry.
Dumitru, an engineering student, said: “Being part of the Accelerator Programme has honestly opened my eyes to what working at Sizewell C is really like.
“I loved getting stuck into real tasks and talking to people who do the job every day. It’s made me feel way more confident about my future.”
This pilot programme was the first time Sizewell C had hosted a full cohort of work experience students on site at once.
As part of their work experience, students got a guided tour of the construction site, took part in CV-writing workshops and sessions introducing them to early career pathways in the nuclear and construction sectors.
Layla, an organisational capability student, said: “This week has been such a good experience.
“I didn’t realise how many different careers there are on the project until now. Everyone’s been so supportive, and it’s helped me figure out what I might want to do next.”
The group was selected by East Coast College based on their interest in Sizewell C and their potential to progress into future roles on the project.
Davina Bell, Skills and Employment Outreach Specialist at Sizewell C, said: “As registered members of the Young Sizewell C Programme, this opportunity forms a key part of our commitment to developing the skills of the future generation and bringing local young people into the project to experience what a career with Sizewell C could look like.
“Building on this success, we plan to expand the programme into other colleges and sixth forms across the region, ensuring even more young people can benefit from this pathway.”
Michelle Woolnough, Careers Coordinator, East Coast College, added: “Providing our students with the opportunity to undertake work experience at Sizewell C has been incredibly valuable.
“It has allowed them to witness a major project first-hand, build their confidence, and develop practical skills that will help shape their future career paths.”
As construction of the power station progresses, at least 1,500 apprenticeships will be created, including 540 for those in Suffolk.
Sizewell C has recruited more than 100 apprentices so far, many of which will be supported by a new £39.5m, permanent post-16 college in the project’s host town of Leiston, which includes the creation of an Apprenticeship Support Hub and dedicated Training Centre of Excellence.
The college, known as “College on the Coast” and delivered in partnership with Suffolk New College, is expected to open to students in September 2027, subject to planning consent.
