EDF Energy has started its search for 2017’s apprentices who will join Hinkley B next September.

Staff have been visiting schools and colleges to promote the four-year training scheme through a series of engineering workshops and events.

The start of the apprentice recruitment process has also coincided with the relaunch of the national campaign to change teenage girls’ perceptions of science and inspire them to pursue science-based careers.

EDF Energy launched #PrettyCurious, a long-term programme to encourage more teenage girls to study STEM, last year.

The programme aims to give female students hands-on experiences and provide them with opportunities to learn about the wide range of careers available in STEM.

Traditionally, new apprentices from schools and colleges around Somerset are based at Hinkley Point B power station near Bridgwater.

The station’s apprentice co-ordinator James Mason said: “We always try and get some of our current apprentices out to the events so they can give a different insight into the training programme and the feedback we have had so far has been extremely positive.”

The closing date for applications is early in January 2017, when successful applicants will first take tests, followed by interviews and assessments before the final selection is made.

After the 2017 apprentices are chosen they and their families will be taken to see HMS Sultan – the Portsmouth-based training facility where the apprentices will spend their first two years.

Mr Mason said: “We know that for many of our new apprentices that it will be first time they will have left home.

“So it is important that they and their parents see what’s on offer at HMS Sultan, the accommodation as well as the leisure facilities.”

Away from the classroom the apprentices will enjoy excellent sports and leisure facilities under the watchful eye of the centre’s own team.

EDF Energy’s apprentices also undertake an extensive life skills package along with some cultural visits to European cities.

After two years, the apprentices return to their home sites to complete their apprenticeship with on-the-job training

Applications for the apprentice programme can be made through the EDF Energy careers website at http://www.edfenergy.com/careers.

More information about the apprenticeship scheme is also available from EDF Energy’s Hinkley Point Visitor Centre by telephoning 01278 428988 or emailing hinkleybtours@edf-energy.com