It’s National Apprenticeship Week, an annual celebration which shines a light on how apprenticeships can help build skills for life. Our apprentices are vital in supporting Sellafield in delivering its mission of a clean and safe environment for future generations. Their dedication and enthusiasm, supported by their teams’ collaborative and encouraging environment, are helping them grow into the professionals of our nuclear future.
Contributing to this are some of our operative apprentices, delivering work for our Sellafield Product and Residue Store Retreatment Plant (SRP) and SIXEP Continuity Plant (SCP).
As we celebrate National Apprenticeship Week, please read below to learn more about their work as part of team PPP.
Kerris is a second year apprentice with our long-term partner NG Bailey
Kerris is gaining valuable experience working in our Sellafield Product and Residue Store Retreatment (SRP) team, working on containment systems, aspirating pipes, and various electrical tasks.
This hands-on exposure has broadened her understanding and boosted her confidence. Inspired by her school engineering classes and encouragement from family members in the trade, Kerris chose this path for its dynamic challenges and opportunities.
What she enjoys most about PPP is the variety in her daily work, which keeps her motivated and engaged. She feels well supported by her mentors and colleagues, who regularly check in on her progress and encourage open communication.
Outside of work, Kerris enjoys spending time with friends and walking in her free time.
When asked if she had any advice for someone beginning their apprenticeship, she added:
“Be confident, communicate, and embrace the learning process – it’s a journey worth taking. We all have to start somewhere. Don’t be afraid to ask for advice or help from those around you; they’re there to support you
Charlie Agenew is an apprentice joiner with William King Construction
Charlie is a new apprentice, starting his journey five weeks ago joining our SIXEP Continuity Plant (SCP) team.
Though he is at the beginning of his training, he has already immersed himself in learning the ropes and adjusting to the fast-paced environment on site.
Charlie chose joinery because of its practical nature and the satisfaction of creating something tangible.
He appreciates the welcoming atmosphere at PPP, where supervisors and teammates have made him feel comfortable and supported.
When asked what his advice would be to someone considering an apprenticeship, he said:
“Embrace the challenge for what it is; it will benefit you in the long run. You’ll face challenges you haven’t had before, but learning to overcome them is rewarding and helps shape you to be a better person and helps you build a more rewarding career.”
Declan Faulkner is a fourth-year apprentice from Altrad, working on our SIXEP Continuity Plant (SCP)
In his fourth year, Declan is nearing the completion of his training. Over the years, he has built the confidence to tackle complex tasks and develop technical skills that have prepared him for a promising future.
Declan credits his interest in engineering to his fascination with cars, which motivated him to pursue a career in the trade.
When asked about his experiences and advice from working in his PPP team, he said:
“I work with a great team on site. All my colleagues and supervisors are approachable and always willing to help.
“I feel supported in my role, with regular check-ins to ensure I stay on track. For my overall experience, I like how collaborative the environment is. This has stood out for me as it has been different to how other sites I’ve worked on operate.
“My advice to aspiring apprentices would be to stick with the program as confidence and skills grow with time and experience.”
Jessica Todd, is a second-year electrical apprentice with NG Bailey
Jessica has been developing her skills in containment systems on the SRP project. While her classroom learning focuses on domestic electrics, her on-site work has expanded her practical experience in industrial applications.
Jessica’s passion for electrical work stems from her early exposure to engineering in school, which helped her discover her interest in this field.
When asked about her experience working at PPP, she said:
“I really value the supportive environment at PPP, and my supervisors and colleagues encourage me to check in regularly with them about my progress.
“I have learned that teamwork and good communication will be key to my success, giving me the confidence to learn and try new things to grow in my role.”
Jessica enjoys spending time outdoors and walking in her free time, a simple but refreshing hobby that balances her demanding work life. Her advice to newcomers? Stay determined —every challenge is an opportunity to grow and thrive.
Keep an eye out for more features from our apprentices!
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Youngsters at a West Cumbrian school are going to benefit from an outdoor ‘wellbeing room’ and sensory garden, thanks to members of our supply chain.
Sir Robert McAlpine (SRM) provided health and safety advice and did ground surveys before work began.
Bookwell Primary School deputy head and wellbeing lead, Shona Wolfenden, added: “We’re all very excited about our new space! We can’t believe how quickly it’s come together, with very little fuss or disruption. If only all school projects ran as smoothly!
A scaffolding supervisor on our Sellafield Product and Residue Store Retreatment Plant (SRP) has talked about his pride in making a difference at PPP.