PLANS for a groundbreaking academy that will transform the training opportunities for future professionals have been announced. 

Sellafield has joined forces with the University of Cumbria to create a new training academy for nuclear professionals this September.

The new Project Academy for Sellafield will provide specialist education, training and professional qualifications necessary to deliver the complex and challenging projects associated with decommissioning Europe’s most complex nuclear site.

Steve Livingstone, newly appointed projects director for Sellafield said: “Sellafield has always provided pathways to education and training, but this academy is going to transform the way people train in many of the professions related to projects, from design, operations, and construction to health and safety, project management and leadership, while also allowing them to do this on their doorstep."

The project has won the support of some of the area's leading educational establishments including Furness College, Lakes College and the Centre for Leadership Performance. 

Mr Livingstone said he was "proud" to be involved with the process. 

He said: "It will equip people with the education, skills and qualifications required to deliver the unique and complex projects, ensuring the site has the right people with the right skills delivering the UK nuclear decommissioning programme."