Constructionarium recently welcomed engineering and construction students from the University of East London to its site-simulator facility in Norfolk.
Backed by funding from the Nuclear Industry Benevolent Fund, the students constructed a scaled replica of a nuclear power station called ‘Nuclear Island’ – mirroring the complexity of projects like the upcoming Sizewell C development.
Each year, the not-for-profit training provider supports around 1,000 learners through its skills programmes, providing hands-on experience for future construction professionals.
Julia Stevens, chief executive of Constructionarium, said: “With government’s recent announcement about investment to build the new Sizewell C nuclear plant in Suffolk and national focus sharpening on energy security and low-carbon generation, Constructionarium is helping to address the skills shortage by equipping students and early careers employees with the skills they need to become our future infrastructure professionals.
“Our immersive approach and the scale of our projects creates a learning environment that is truly unique in the world.”
Students were given five days to deliver their project, gaining technical insight, building practical skills, and working collaboratively in the site-simulator environment.
Ian Lemon, academic at the University of East London, said: “I have been bringing students here for the past 15 years undertaking various projects from Constructionarium’s portfolio. Its offering to academia and student learning is unrivalled.
“What a fabulous opportunity these students have had this week. On top of the practical learning and employability skills they’ve developed, they’ve also gained crucial awareness of the career opportunities within the nuclear and infrastructure sectors and can see how they can play their part in solving the energy crisis.”
