Sellafield Ltd have been named one of The Sunday Times Top 100 Apprenticeship Employers 2026, ranking 49th. The annual list recognises organisations across the UK that are leading the way in apprenticeships. Their inclusion reflects their long-standing investment in developing skills, supporting local communities and building the workforce needed to deliver their mission.
They have been training apprentices for more than 50 years, and the past ten years they have supported around 2,500 apprentices. Today, more than 750 apprentices are in training across 24 pathways. This includes both vocational and degree routes. These roles span engineering, project management, digital and science.
As part of the Nuclear Decommissioning Authority (NDA) group, over £50 million is invested in early careers each year. Sellafield's programmes build skills for nuclear decommissioning and the UK’s clean energy future. They work closely with education partners and communities to create pathways into employment. They conduct outreach in schools, work experience and investment in local education facilities which helps remove barriers and create high-quality careers in West Cumbria and Warrington.
Michelle Lambon-Wilks, head of education, skills and social mobility said: "As an organisation delivering long-term national capability, developing future talent is one of our most important responsibilities. Achieving a place in the UK’s Top 100 Apprenticeship Employers demonstrates our commitment to creating high-quality opportunities, building critical skills and investing in the workforce of the future." The announcement was made as part of a national launch event streamed to thousands of schools, colleges and employers across the UK.
Tegan Shaw, a health physics apprentice, was interviewed and featured as part of the launch programme, showcasing the impact of apprenticeships.
She said: "It felt really special to represent Sellafield, health physics and the wider nuclear industry on a national stage. It shows just how many different opportunities an apprenticeship can open up. My apprenticeship gives me hands-on experience in a role that matters. I’m learning from experts while helping keep people and the environment safe.
"One of the best things about my apprenticeship has been the support network around me. I’ve learned so much from mentors, teammates and the wider apprentice community. It’s a great place to start a career and I’m proud to be part of a team making a difference."