Nuclear sector collaboration delivers online STEM resources for schools

A group of leading employers in the nuclear sector have released a range of online STEM resources to improve the accessibility of nuclear science within the school curriculum.

A partnership between the Nuclear Skills Strategy Group (NSSG), the industry’s skills lead, and curriculum specialists Developing Experts has delivered free-to-use STEM resources to over 6,600 schools via an online virtual learning platform. The resources link the science curriculum with the STEM workplace, support the development of lesson plans and inspire young people to consider a wide range of science-linked career pathways.

Leading employers, including National Nuclear Laboratories, Rolls Royce SMR, Cavendish Nuclear, Nuclear Waste Services, Nuclear Decommissioning Authority, Frazer-Nash and  Magnox, are supporting the initiative to promote the nuclear sector and showcase career potential.

With knowledge of STEM topics increasingly vital in a world reliant on digital technology, it’s hoped the launch of new curriculum-aligned material can help inspire the next generation of nuclear professionals and better prepare young people for the workplace.

As well as helping pupils to understand the practical application of science in the workplace in an engaging format, it’s hoped that the resources will empower teachers with the confidence and knowledge to bring nuclear science into the classroom.

Financial contributors to the initiative include the Office for Nuclear Regulation (ONR), EDF Energy, Submarine Delivery Agency, ECITB, the Nuclear Decommissioning Authority, National Nuclear Laboratory, and the members of the Alpha Resilience Consortium. The next phase of the project will see a further expansion of employers and schools involved over the coming months.

Beccy Pleasant , Head of Skills at the NSSG commented:

 “The importance of high-quality STEM teaching in children’s education cannot be overstated. Nuclear has an important part to play in our low-carbon future and will need to attract tomorrow’s talent as the industry grows. The launch of the new curriculum supporting material designed to connect, inspire and educate is a first for our sector, and I’m delighted that schools and children will have access to engaging nuclear resources to help bring through a whole new generation of science talent."

For more information on the project, please get in touch with Martin.McManus@cogentskills.com.