Mechanical Engineering Degree Apprenticeship
Location: Leicester, GB, LE3 1UF
Onsite or Hybrid: OnSite
Programme title: Mechanical Engineering Degree Apprenticeship
Level: 6
Join our Cavendish Nuclear business and build a career that truly matters. Over this 4-year programme, you’ll study towards a BEng (Hons) in Nuclear Engineering while gaining hands-on experience on initiatives that support the safe delivery of nuclear new build and decommissioning projects. It provides a solid foundation for a rewarding career in the nuclear industry.
About the programme
As a Mechanical Engineering Apprentice at Cavendish Nuclear, you’ll join a collaborative and experienced team working across all phases of the engineering lifecycle. Whether you’re supporting new build or decommissioning projects, you’ll play a vital role in the UK’s civil nuclear sector helping to deliver national energy resilience, meet net zero commitments, and safely clean up the nuclear legacy.
You’ll work on a variety of nuclear projects, from developing new technologies and maintaining essential systems to extending the life of vital infrastructure. Your day-to-day activities will include hands-on experience with Computer Aided Design (CAD), 3D modelling, mechanical calculations, and producing engineering documentation to national and international standards.
Based at one of our key sites in Leicester, you’ll support major projects at locations like Sellafield. You’ll begin by shadowing experienced engineers, building a strong foundation in design, modelling, calculations, and documentation. As you develop, you’ll take on more complex tasks and gain valuable experience across the full design lifecycle.
Your education/training
You will study towards the Nuclear Scientist and Nuclear Engineer Degree Apprenticeship standard through the University of Derby.
Your academic learning will take place at the Nuclear Skills Academy, located in Derby’s newly refurbished iHub building on Infinity Park. The programme is delivered part-time over four years, with three semesters per year in the first three years and two semesters in the final year.
In your final year, you’ll complete an integrated End Point Assessment (EPA), designed to evaluate your readiness for professional practice. By the end of the programme, you’ll be equipped with a respected degree and nuclear engineering experience.
By the end of the programme, you will have earned your degree and gained the skills, experience and knowledge to thrive as a Mechanical Engineer at Cavendish Nuclear – with a competitive salary exceeding £43,000.
What you’ll need
* Minimum of 5 GCSEs at Grade 4 (C) or above, including Maths, English and Science, plus one of the following:
o 104 UCAS points at A Level including Maths and Physics or another STEM subject at grade C
o BTEC Extended Diploma: DMM in Engineering including Maths units
o Pass Access Course: 104 points including 15 Level 3 credits in Maths and Physics or STEM at Merit
o International Baccalaureate: 104 points including Higher Level 6 in Maths and Physics or STEM
o T Level: Merit in an engineering T-Level discipline
o IELTS: 6.0 with no component lower than 5.5
* Many of our apprenticeship programmes are subject to Security Clearance and Trade Control restrictions which mean that your place of birth, nationality, citizenship, or residency you hold or have held may impact which programmes you are eligible for.
What you’ll get
We’ll provide you with a supportive and engaging environment where you can grow your career.
* Fully funded qualification
* Personal development training and opportunities
* Minimum 28 days holiday allowance including bank holidays
* Employee share scheme
* Flexible benefits including cycle to work scheme and employee shopping savings portal
You’ll also have the chance to get involved in our STEM outreach activities and volunteering opportunities, which our apprentices find incredibly rewarding.
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