PUPILS at a Whitehaven primary school have been learning what life is like as a nuclear apprentice.

Two former apprentices who work at Cavendish Nuclear visited Bransty Primary School to engage with youngsters during national apprenticeship week.

Project assistant, Sarah Dockeray and lab analyst, Charlotte Vernon, spoke to pupils about apprenticeships and a STEM booklet they have helped create.

Youngsters also had the opportunity to try on work gear and take part in a design a scientist competition.

The winning design will be displayed at the Cavendish Nuclear office based at Westlakes Science Park.

Belinda Currie, year three teacher, said pupils had enjoyed the activities.

“It just means they know more about their educational options and why they are at school in the first place,” she said.

“It’s really, really important there are other options - not just within the university setting.

“I would say 50 per cent of parents work in the nuclear industry so it gives them more of an understanding of what family members do.

“Quite a few of them want to follow in what their parents are doing.”

Miss Dockeray said: “It’s been good. It’s nice to see they’re interested because nuclear is so big here.”

The former St Benedict’s School pupil said an apprenticeship was ideal for someone like her, who was interested in science but unsure of what she wanted to do.

She hopes her own experience will enthuse the next generation.

“Something like this will spark their interest. You could tell they were excited this morning,” she said.

Miss Vernon added: “It’s nice to come to a primary school and get them enthusiastic about science. It’s a refreshing change.”

The STEM booklet introduces children to the life cycle of an advanced gas cooled reactor.

It has been produced by Cavendish Nuclear’s Youth Voice Network, which aims to provide a platform of communication channelled through young professionals, to create an inclusive culture.