Inspiring Future Careers: NWS Hosts Leadership Programme for Young People in Cumbria

Nuclear Waste Services (NWS) recently welcomed five students as part of the Dream Placement programme—an award-winning leadership initiative led by the Centre for Leadership Performance. Targeted at 16–18-year-olds in Cumbria, the programme connects youth with local businesses to develop leadership skills and explore future careers. During their week-long placement, students engaged with various departments at NWS, including Environmental, Cyber Security, Waste Characterisation, and HR. The immersive experience not only introduced them to diverse career paths within the nuclear sector but also challenged them to create a lesson plan on Energy, Waste, and the Environment for younger students—now to be used as an educational resource.

NWS has seen tangible outcomes, with 20% of past Dream Placement students securing apprenticeships within the organisation. Alumni like Teddy Waning and Macy Bradley, now Nuclear Scientific Apprentices, credited their placement as pivotal to their career choices. The programme culminated in a celebration at the Dream Placement Showcase Event at Energus in Lilyhall.

This year, 230 young people applied, with over 30 businesses participating—demonstrating the growing popularity and impact of the initiative in Cumbria. NWS leadership reaffirmed their commitment to nurturing local talent and promoting community engagement through evolving, meaningful opportunities.

Key Points for Policymakers:

20% of Dream Placement students with NWS secure apprenticeships—evidence of talent pipeline development.
Collaboration between education, business, and government can drive regional skills growth.
Programmes like this encourage STEM engagement and career awareness beyond traditional university pathways.