EDF Energy has started its search for its 2017s apprentices, who will join the company next September.

During the autumn, staff from Heysham power stations will be visiting schools and colleges to promote the four-year training scheme. The Visitor Centre will also be hosting open mornings for those interested in becoming apprentices.

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

Last year, EDF Energy launched #PrettyCurious, a long-term programme to encourage more teenage girls to study STEM. The programme aims to give girls hands-on experiences and provide them with opportunities to learn about the wide range of careers available in STEM.

Heysham power stations, which took on 13 apprentices last year, are running ‘information mornings’ at the Visitor Centre on December 18 and January 7, starting at 10am.

Apprentice co-ordinator Kevin Demain is also visiting schools and colleges to talk to students about the programme.

He said: “I usually take one or two of the current apprentices with me to the talks, as they can give a different insight into the training programme.”

The closure date for applications is early in January 2017, when successful applicants will first take tests, followed by interviews and then join an assessment centre 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 Demain 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 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 will open on November 1, and will be through the EDF Energy careers website. http://www.edfenergy.com/careers/

• To book a place on the information mornings contact Heysham Visitor Centre on 01524 868451 heyshamvisitorcentre@edf-energy.com