Nuclear Power Plant Operations (Wales)

Transcription

1 Nuclear Power Plant Operations (Wales) Latest framework version? Please use this link to see if this is the latest issued version of this framework: afo.sscalliance.org/frameworkslibrary/index.cfm?id=fr01860 Issue date: 13 December 2012 Published by Cogent

2 Nuclear Power Plant Operations (Wales)

3 Framework summary Nuclear Power Plant Operations Nuclear Power Plant Operations Pathways for this framework at level 3 include: Pathway 1: Nuclear Power Plant Technician Competence qualifications available to this pathway: C1 - Level 3 Diploma in Nuclear Plant Operations (QCF) Knowledge qualifications available to this pathway: K1 - BTEC Level 3 Diploma in Operations and Maintenance Engineering (QCF) Combined qualifications available to this pathway: N/A This pathway also contains information on: Employee rights and responsibilities Essential skills

4 Framework information Information on the Publishing Authority for this framework: Cogent The Apprenticeship sector for occupations in chemical manufacturing, nuclear science, oil and gas extraction (also includes process technology, bioscience, polymer and sign making). Issue number: 1 Framework ID: FR01860 This framework includes: Level 3 Date this framework is to be reviewed by: 14/04/2014 This framework is for use in: Wales Short description To provide an entry route into the commercial Nuclear Power Industry to develop the skills needed for Nuclear Power Plant Operations technicians or operators. You would undertake skills and knowledge training in one of the following areas, the generation pathway or nuclear fuel operations. There is one Apprenticeship contained in this framework: The level 3 Apprenticeship in Nuclear Power Plant Operations (will take a minimum of 36 months to complete) The framework contains details of vocational qualifications; knowledge based technical qualifications, Essential Skills in (English, Mathematics and Information Communication Technology) and employee rights and responsibilities. These are all required for an in Nuclear Power Plant Operations.

5 Contact information Proposer of this framework Cogent Sector Skills Council has published this non-statutory Apprenticeship Frameworks prior to the designation of issuing authorities for Wales. Cogent has worked with a number of employers to develop this Apprenticeship. They include EDF Energy, Magnox and Horizon Nuclear Power. Without the support of industry this Apprenticeship Framework could never have been developed. Cogent SSC and its industrial partners will continue to work together to make sure that the future requirements of the nuclear new build projects in Wales are reflected in this Apprenticeship Framework in future reviews. Developer of this framework Name: Organisation: Organisation type: Job title: Ian Lockhart Cogent Sector Skills Council Sector Skills Council Apprenticeship Manager Phone: Postal address: Website: ian.lockhart@cogent-ssc.com Cogent SSC Limited Unit 5 Mandarin Court Centre Park Warrington WA1 1GG Issuing Authority's contact details Issued by: Cogent Issuer contact name: James Murdock Issuer phone: Issuer

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7 Purpose of this framework Summary of the purpose of the framework Cogent Sector Skills Council has published this non-statutory Apprenticeship Frameworks prior to the designation of issuing authorities for Wales. This Apprenticeship has been designed for new entrants and existing staff to the role of nuclear power plant operations technicians. The Nuclear Industry in the UK The nuclear industry in the UK operated the world s first commercial nuclear power reactor in The industry now directly employs over 44,000 people in the UK. Nuclear power at its peak provided round 20% of the UK s electricity although many of the nuclear power stations are coming to the end of life and the contribution today is 15%. Even so, this saves the equivalent of the carbon emissions from most the UK s cars on the road. Without new nuclear power station build, by 2025 only Sizewell B will remain generating electricity. The nuclear fuel cycle operations in the UK are of major international importance and can provide for all the needs of the UK and for much of the export demand. The Ministry of Defence operates a fleet of nuclear powered submarines and the UK nuclear deterrent programme. The safe and cost effective decommissioning and clean-up of the industry's power stations and fuel processing facilities, which are being progressively shut down, are providing future technical and engineering challenges for the industry. The decommissioning of the UK s civil nuclear facilities and the clean-up of the sites has been the responsibility of the Nuclear Decommissioning Authority since 1st April The industry operators are supported by a wide variety of supply chain companies, such as engineering and construction contractors, fabricators of specialist equipment, manufacturers and specialist service providers. Companies involved in the design or supply of safety related equipment or materials must meet strict quality requirements and need underpinning knowledge about the work of the industry. With the prospect of new nuclear build, this supply chain is growing and extending its capability. The UK industry also has a significant international element of its business. The experience and skills held by the industry in reactor operation, design and construction, maintenance and inspection, waste management and decommissioning technology - provides a good basis for export business to a growing global market. Many British nuclear companies have substantial business in nuclear markets abroad. Nuclear Power

8 Calder Hall, which commenced operation in 1956, was a prototype for the gas-cooled Magnox power reactors which followed. They all exceeded their original design life and all but two Magnox Power Stations are now shutdown for decommissioning. Oldbury and Wylfa power stations, operated by Magnox Ltd are still in operation and contribute about 3% of the UK s electricity supply. EDF Energy operates the more modern fleet of Advanced Gas-cooled Reactors (AGRs) as well as the Pressurised Water Reactor (PWR) at Sizewell B station. Together, these reactors normally generate over 15% of the UK s electricity, making EDF Energy the biggest generator in the country. A well trained and highly skilled workforce of over 24,000 people is employed directly in the operation and decommissioning of the UK s nuclear power stations. The stations, which compete with other fuel types in the electricity market, are well distributed around the coast of Great Britain. All the sites operate under the conditions of the nuclear site licence under the watchful eye of the Office of Nuclear Regulation (ONR). To combat the effects of climate change and ensure security of energy supply, the Government have set out their view that nuclear power should be part of the UK s low-carbon energy mix and that Companies should have the option of building new nuclear power stations. A new Government department, the Office for Nuclear Development in the Department of Energy and Climate Change, has been established to facilitate the nuclear new build programme. The aim is to have new nuclear power stations generating electricity from around Cogent s Labour Market Intelligence research Intelligence shows that a programme of nuclear renaissance will require annual recruitment of around 1000 people, many at Apprentice and Graduate level. Nuclear Fuel Cycle The nuclear fuel cycle provides the fresh fuel and the spent fuel services reprocessing or storage for nuclear power stations. Over 10,000 people in the UK are employed in the production, reprocessing and storage of nuclear fuel and in waste handling in the UK. The UK industry also provides the processing of spent nuclear fuel from international markets. Aims and objectives of this framework (Wales) Apprenticeship in Nuclear Power Plant Operations. To provide an entry route into the commercial Nuclear Power Industry to develop the skills

9 needed for Nuclear Power Plant Operations technicians/operators. To enable the commercial Nuclear Power Industry to complete in a global market by having the skilled staff the industry need. Objectives of the Apprenticeship in Nuclear Power Plant Operations. 1. To provide the skilled operators and technicians to meet the future demand forecasted by the nuclear power generating industries. 2. To provide a structured training framework that will provide the skills needed to operate, control and maintain plant and equipment. 3. To provide a development framework for existing staff in nuclear power generating industries to up-skill their current vocational skills and knowledge that will enable them to meet the future challenges of new technologies and changing generating process. 4. To provide progression opportunities for apprentices wishing to engage in further study in Further or Higher Education. 5. To attract new talent into the Nuclear Power Industries from a range of backgrounds, in order to meet industry requirements.

10 Entry conditions for this framework Rules to Avoid Repeating Qualifications; Processes exist to make sure that applicants with prior knowledge, qualifications and experiences are not disadvantaged by having to repeat learning. Training providers and awarding organisations will be able to advise on the current rules for accrediting prior learning and recognising prior experience. Refer to on and off the job training section for guidance about prior attainment and achievement. In the meantime, this is a short summary: There are no relaxations or proxies for any qualifications specified in a framework in SASW, however, providers are encouraged to identify additional on the job training programmes that customise the learning to the new workplace. 1. Essential Skills Wales. If applicants already have GCSEs in English, Maths and Information and Communications Technology (ICT) they still have to do the Essential Skills Wales at the relevant level as these are new qualifications and proxies do not exist. If applicants already have achieved Key Skills at the relevant level, they will not have to do the relevant Essential Skills Wales ESW), however, apprentices can be encouraged to complete ESW at a higher level if appropriate. 2. Knowledge qualifications. If applicants already have one of the level 3 Knowledge qualifications before they started their Apprenticeship, (see knowledge qualification page in this framework) they can count this and do not have to redo the qualification, providing that they have achieved this qualification within 3 years of applying for the certificate. For example they may have already achieved the knowledge element as part of the Welsh Baccalaureate. The hours spent gaining this qualification will also count towards the minimum hours required this framework. 3. Competence qualifications. If applicants already have the level 3 Competence qualification for the Apprenticeship they do not have to repeat this qualification, however, this qualification must have been achieved within in 1 year of applying for the certificate and they will still have demonstrate competence in the workplace. 4. Prior experience. Applicants already working in the sector will be able to have their prior experiences recognised by the Awarding Organisation and this will count towards the competence and the knowledge qualifications in this framework.

11 Initial Assessment Training Providers and employers will use initial assessment to ensure that applicants have a fair opportunity to demonstrate their ability and to tailor the programme to meet individual needs, recognising prior qualifications and experiences. 1. Please Note: As part of the entry conditions for employment in the nuclear industry all applicants are required to be security cleared through Industry security vetting processes. This will also include an occupational health assessment. Some employers require apprentices to live away from home in the first two years of the. As an apprentice, you will need to be employed for a minimum of 30 hours per week and have an Apprenticeship Agreement which is signed by yourself and your employer.. Apprenticeship The Apprenticeship in Nuclear Power Plant Operations is open to all people aged 16 or over. Note, routine entry into radiation controlled areas is normally restricted to persons over the age of 18. This is a requirement of the Nuclear Installations Act. The framework complies with these arrangements. motivation to succeed within industry an awareness of the demands of the Apprenticeship willingness to comply with employer/training provider terms and conditions of employment have the ability to apply learning in the workplace willingness to work with due regard to Health and Safety of self and others effective communication with a range of people. The following examples of evidence can be used to support some of the above statements, such as; progression from an Intermediate Level Apprenticeship in a related discipline or previous work experience or employment or voluntary or community based work or achievement of GCSEs (A*-C) or equivalent qualifications in Maths, English, Science or

12 achievement of a Higher/ Advanced Diploma in Manufacturing or a Higher/ Advanced Diploma in Engineering or achievement of Awards, Certificates or Diplomas in a related industry such as Science or Engineering or Welsh Baccalaureate or proof of completion of non-accredited courses. All Apprenticeship applicants should be aware of the varied working conditions that may include; working at heights shiftwork (including nights and weekends) 365 day operations working outdoors wearing specialist safety equipment working within a radiological environment

13 ... level 3 Level 3 Title for this framework at level 3 Nuclear Power Plant Operations Pathways for this framework at level 3 Pathway 1: Nuclear Power Plant Technician

14 ... level 3... Pathway 1 Level 3, Pathway 1: Nuclear Power Plant Technician Description of this pathway Nuclear Power Plant Operations (Nuclear Power Plant Technician) Total minimum credit value for this pathway: 226 Credits: 88 Credits for Competence 120 Credits for Knowledge 18 Credits for Essential Skills english, mathematics and ICT Entry requirements for this pathway in addition to the framework entry requirements None

15 ... level 3... Pathway 1 Job title(s) Nuclear Power Plant/Production Technician/Operator Generation Nuclear Power Plant/Production Technican/Operator Fuel Route Job role(s) Responsible for the safe and reliable operation of a nuclear power plant in accordance with all licences, regulating bodies, company business strategies and industry practice in the area of power generation. Holds one or more emergency scheme roles. Responsible for the safe and reliable operation of a nuclear power plant in accordance with all licences, regulating bodies, company business strategies and industry practice in the area of providing/removing fuel from the reactor. Holds one or more emergency scheme roles.

16 ... level 3... Pathway 1 Qualifications Competence qualifications available to this pathway C1 - Level 3 Diploma in Nuclear Plant Operations (QCF) No. Ref no. Awarding organisation Credit value Guided learning hours UCAS points value C1a 600/7102/3 PAA\VQSET N/A Knowledge qualifications available to this pathway K1 - BTEC Level 3 Diploma in Operations and Maintenance Engineering (QCF) No. Ref no. Awarding organisation Credit value Guided learning hours UCAS points value K1a 500/7315/1 Edexcel Pearson Education Ltd N/A

17 ... level 3... Pathway 1 Combined qualifications available to this pathway N/A Relationship between competence and knowledge qualifications The K1 - BTEC Level 3 Diploma in Operations and Maintenance Engineering (QCF) will provide the underpinning knowledge for the competence qualification C1 - Diploma in Nuclear Plant Operations (QCF). Competence: Level 3 Diploma in Nuclear Power Plant Operations (QCF) learners must achieve a minimum of 88 Credits. Knowledge: Edexcel Pearson BTEC Level 3 Diploma in Operations and Maintenance Engineering (QCF) learners must achieve a minimum of 120 Credits. The credit values and guided learning hours quoted in the above tables are the minimum for the qualification as stated on the Register of Regulated Qualifications. These credit values and guided learning hours may vary according to specific pathways/ options taken within qualifications. For further details please refer to the Register of Regulated Qualifications (

18 ... level 3... Pathway 1 Transferable skills (Wales) Essential skills (Wales) Minimum level Credit value Communication Level 2 6 Application of numbers Level 2 6 IT Level 2 6 Progression routes into and from this pathway Progression into this pathway: There are no pre-defined routes of entry into the Apprenticeship in Nuclear Power Plant Operations; however, new entrants to the industry may be looking to progress from the following areas: Completion of an Foundation Level Apprenticeship in a related subject. Work based qualifications such as NVQs/ SVQs or vocationally related qualifications in a subject related to Nuclear Power Plant Operations. (Examples may include: BTEC s, City & Guilds, PAA/VQ-SET Diplomas/ Certificates/ Awards) GCSEs or A Levels in Science, Maths, Welsh Baccalaureate or Engineering or Science also provide a strong platform for progression on to the framework. Higher / Advanced Diplomas in Engineering or Manufacturing also provide an excellent opportunity for progression into Nuclear Power Plant Operations. Previous experience in the nuclear industries or a related discipline can also be an appropriate route of entry. Progression from this pathway: Following completion of this Apprenticeship there are several options open to the successful candidate who wishes to continue their development in order to progress their career. There are opportunities to continue to undertake further vocational training or academic qualifications. These may include (but are not exclusive to) the following: Foundation Degree in Nuclear or a related discipline Higher National Certificate/ Diploma in Maintenance Engineering or a related discipline

19 ... level 3... Pathway 1 Advanced Diploma in Engineering or Advanced Diploma in Manufacturing. Developing a career in coaching through Assessor and Verifier Awards Qualifications in a related area, including (but not limited to) Health & Safety, Training & Development, Business Improvement Techniques and Supervisory Management Membership of a professional institution at Engineering Technician level (Further information available at Cogent Job Context qualifications contained within the Job Context frameworks ( Successful completion of the Apprenticeship and additional role specific training requirements could lead to the following job roles/functions: Leadership and Supervision Operator technician (with enhanced roles) Engineering roles with Operations and other Departments For a more in-depth look at careers within the Cogent Industries, please look at our careers pathway website UCAS points for this pathway: (no information)

20 ... level 3... Pathway 1 Employee rights and responsibilities This Employee Rights and Responsibilities (ERR) section has no QCF Credit Value. It is important that all employees understand and can demonstrate an understanding of their rights and responsibilities as an employee. The Cogent Employee's Rights and Responsibilities (ERR) Workbook and Assessment Document has been designed to assist employers and training providers and should be used to deliver this mandatory element of the Apprenticeship Framework. The content is as follows: - 1. Statutory rights and responsibilities under Employment Law. 2. Procedures and documentation that affect the relationship between employee and employer. 3. Sources of information and advice on employment rights and responsibilities. 4. The role played by an Apprentice s occupation in the organisation and industry. 5. Career pathways open to an Apprentice. 6. The types of representative bodies relevant to the industry and organisation and their main roles and responsibilities. 7. Where and how to get advice on the industry, occupation, training and careers. 8. Organisational principles and codes of practice. 9. Issues of public concern that affect the organisation and industry. It is essential that the Apprentice can demonstrate competence in ERR and, as a result, is required to provide documentary evidence confirming their achievements. Examples of how the evidence can be gathered by individuals include; completing a company induction, attending relevant taught off-the-job training sessions on-the-job assessment. To obtain a copy of the workbook and assessment document, please visit the Apprenticeships section of the Cogent website at

21 ... level 3... Pathway 1

22 The remaining sections apply to all levels and pathways within this framework. How equality and diversity will be met The Nuclear Plant Operations Apprenticeship aims to promote diversity, opportunity and inclusion by offering high-quality, learning opportunities. The delivery of the Apprenticeship Framework will be in environments free from prejudice and discrimination where all learners can contribute fully and freely and feel valued. There will be no overt or covert discriminatory practices in selection and recruitment of Apprentices to the programme, which is available to all people, regardless of gender, ethnic origin, religion/belief, sexual orientation or disability who meet the stated selection criteria. Issues All Industries should strive to ensure that; There is not an under-representation of women within the sector. There is not an under-representation of ethnic minority groups within the workforce. There is no discrimination on the grounds of age Barriers Geographical location of the various nuclear power generating sites are generally away from areas of high urban occupancy Although the Industry has good safety record, there remains concerns and misconceptions that the work and its technology is dangerous and has unacceptable levels of environment impact Staff turnover is low due to the specialism of the technology and good employment terms and conditions Actions The introduction of this Apprenticeship framework will provide a means of supporting Industry in its efforts to remove the issues and open up the barriers within the sector. Cogent has introduced a series of industry specific case studies and Careers Pathways on the Cogent Careers web site ( to encourage people from all backgrounds to enter the nuclear power generating industry. Cogent regularly attend regional/ national careers fairs/ skills events to promote Apprenticeships, providing an ideal opportunity to address issues faced by women and ethnic minorities. Cogent are also working with representative groups such as the United Kingdom Resource Centre, engaging with their Women in Science and Engineering Work programme. The nuclear power generating industry positively encourages people from all backgrounds to

23 enter the industry.

24 On and off the job training (Wales) Summary of on- and off-the-job training Summary of off the job training and on the job training for this Apprenticeship Framework Off-the-job learning must be formally recorded, either in a diary, workbook, and portfolio or be verified by attendance records. This evidence needs to be checked and signed by the employer or mentor. These records of hours may need to be submitted to the Certifying Authority when applying for an completion certificate. Below are the 'off-the-job' and 'on-the- job' training hours for the Apprenticeship in Nuclear Power Plant Operations. The components of the framework undertaken will be decided by the employer, provider and the apprentice and will be based on the employer's requirements and the prior achievements and past experiences of the apprentice. There is one pathway contained in this Apprenticeship: 1) Nuclear Plant Technician/Operator The Apprenticeship (Level 3) In Nuclear Working (Usually takes a minimum of 36 months to complete) Apprenticeship in Nuclear Power Plant Operations: 1606 Total Training Hours PAA/VQ-SET Level 3 Diploma in Nuclear Plant Operations (QCF) (671 Training Hours). BTEC Level 3 Diploma in Operations and Maintenance Engineering (QCF) (720 Training Hours) Other framework requirements covering Essential Skills Wales, ERR and mentoring (215 Training Hours) Off-the-job training Off-the-job training is defined as time for learning activities away from normal work duties. Below are the 'off-the-job' hours for the Apprenticeship in Nuclear Power Plant Operations.

25 The components of the framework undertaken will be decided by the employer, provider and the apprentice, based on the employer's requirements and the prior achievements and past experiences of the apprentice. For this Apprenticeship the additional framework requirements covering Essential Skills Wales, ERR and mentoring are met through 215 'off-the-job' training hours. Nuclear Power Plant Operations: 935 'off-the-job' Training Hours BTEC Level 3 Diploma in Operations and Maintenance Engineering (QCF) (720 'off-the-job' Training Hours) Additional framework requirements (215 'off-the-job' Training Hours) How this requirement will be met Apprenticeship Evidence: Copy of a Certificate for the knowledge qualification BTEC Level 3 Diploma in Operations and Maintenance Engineering (QCF) Copies of the required Certificates for Essential Skills Wales Copy of the completed assessor s evidence document for Employee s Rights & Responsibilities Copy of a signed declaration from the training provider stating how the training hours for other types of 'off-the-job' training have been achieved. Off-the-job learning must be formally recorded, either in a diary, workbook, and portfolio or be verified by attendance records. This evidence needs to be checked and signed by the employer or mentor. These records of hours may need to be submitted to the Certifying Authority when applying for an completion certificate. Training hours delivered under an agreement may vary depending on the previous experience and attainment of the apprentice. The amount of off-the-job training required to complete the under the agreement may then be reduced accordingly, provided the total number of off-the-job hours for this framework can be verified for certification. Previous attainment

26 Where a learner enters an agreement having previously attained parts or all of the relevant qualifications, this prior learning needs to be recognised using either QCF credit transfer for achievement within the QCF or through recording of exceptions for certification learning outside of the QCF, for example Principal Learning qualifications. Previous experience Where a learner enters an agreement with previous work-related experience, this prior learning needs to be recognised. For further details please see QCF guidance on claiming credit. To count towards certification, previous experience must be recorded using the appropriate Awarding Organisation s QCF Recognition of Prior Learning procedures and the hours recorded may then count towards the off-the-job hours required to complete this. For an apprentice with prior uncertificated learning experience, the off-the-job learning must have been acquired within 2 years of application for the Foundation Apprenticeship/ Apprenticeship Certificate or have been continuously employed in the relevant job role in the industry for a minimum duration of 3 years. Off-the-job training needs to: Be planned, reviewed and evaluated jointly between the apprentice and a tutor, teacher, mentor or manager; Allow access as and when required by the apprentice either to a tutor, teacher, mentor or manager; Be delivered during contracted working hours; Be delivered through one or more of the following methods: individual and group teaching, e-learning, distance learning, coaching, mentoring, feedback and assessment, collaborative/networked learning with peers, guided study and induction. On-the-job training Apprenticeship Nuclear Power Plant Operations: 671 Training Hours PAA/VQ-SET Level 3 NVQ Diploma in Nuclear Plant Operations (QCF) (671 'on-the-job' Training Hours)

27 How this requirement will be met Apprenticeship in Nuclear Power Plant Operations Copy of a Certificate for the competence qualification Level 3 Diploma in Nuclear Plant Operations (QCF) Copy of any certificates for any training courses attended Copy of any completed assessor/ monitoring reports Copy of any signed declaration from the training provider stating how the training hours for other types of on-the-job training has been achieved. Training hours delivered under an agreement may vary depending on the previous experience and attainment of the apprentice. The amount of on-the-job training required to complete the under the agreement may then be reduced accordingly, provided the total number of on-the-job hours for this framework can be verified for certification. Previous attainment Where a learner enters an agreement having previously attained parts or all of the relevant qualifications, this prior learning needs to be recognised using either QCF credit transfer for achievement within the QCF or through recording of exceptions for certification learning outside of the QCF, for example Principal Learning qualifications. Previous experience Where a learner enters an agreement with previous work-related experience, this prior learning needs to be recognised. For further details please see QCF guidance on claiming credit. To count towards certification, previous experience must be recorded using the appropriate Awarding Organisation s QCF Recognition of Prior Learning procedures and the hours recorded may then count towards the off-the-job hours required to complete this. For an apprentice with prior uncertificated learning experience, the on-the-job learning must have been acquired within 2 years of application for the Foundation Apprenticeship/ Apprenticeship Certificate or have been continuously employed in the relevant job role in the industry for a minimum duration of 3 years. On-the-job training needs to:

28 Be planned, reviewed and evaluated jointly between the apprentice and a tutor, teacher, mentor or manager; Allow access as and when required by the apprentice either to a tutor, teacher, mentor or manager; Be delivered during contracted working hours; Be delivered through one or more of the following methods: individual and group teaching, e-learning, distance learning, coaching, mentoring, feedback and assessment, collaborative/networked learning with peers, guided study and induction.

29 Wider key skills assessment and recognition (Wales) Improving own learning and performance The wider key skill of "Improving own learning and performance", whilst not assessed as part of this framework, is embedded within the learning undertaken in the mandatory units of the competence qualification. Working with others The wider key skill of "Working with Others", whilst not assessed as part of this framework, is embedded within the learning undertaken in the mandatory units of the competence qualification. Problem solving The wider key skill of "Problem Solving", whilst not assessed as part of this framework, is embedded within the learning undertaken in the mandatory units of the competence qualification.

30 Additional employer requirements (no information)

31 For more information visit