Rev Clive Mobbs has joined Sizewell C as its new chaplain, bringing spiritual support to the team constructing the nuclear power station on Suffolk’s coast. Starting his role on October 28, Rev Mobbs aims to be a steady presence for the growing workforce during both the project's construction and its eventual operation.

This new role is part of a partnership between the Church of England in Suffolk and Sizewell C. Rev Mobbs is only the third salaried chaplain at a UK power station, following in the footsteps of Rev Ewen Huffman, the first chaplain at Hinkley Point C in Somerset.

A Multi-Faceted Role

Rev Mobbs described his work as varied, ranging from offering one-to-one spiritual support to celebrating project milestones and holidays. “I want to be a constant and steady force on the site,” he said. “People here will experience all the highs and lows of life, and I’ll be here to support them through it all.”

Drawing inspiration from other chaplaincies in Suffolk, he is collaborating with colleagues, including the chaplain at the University of Suffolk, to adapt strategies for Sizewell’s unique setting.

Bringing a Wealth of Experience

Born and raised in East Suffolk, Rev Mobbs has had a diverse career spanning agriculture, education, and youth services. Before his ordination, he worked with a national adult education charity and retired last year as Participation Manager at Suffolk County Council, where he promoted opportunities for young people.

With an estimated 1,500 apprentices working at Sizewell C, he sees his role as particularly relevant. “Many young people will be working away from home for the first time. It’s a chance to help them navigate challenges and celebrate their achievements,” he said.

Learning from Experience

Rev Mobbs has sought advice from Rev Ewen Huffman, whose tenure at Hinkley Point C began just before the pandemic. Rev Huffman emphasized the importance of supporting workers’ spiritual needs alongside physical and mental health.

“It’s wonderful that Sizewell C is bringing in a chaplain early in the project,” Rev Huffman said. “We’ve learned a lot at Hinkley, and I hope our experiences can help inform Clive’s journey.”

A Chaplain for Everyone

Rev Mobbs is committed to supporting people of all faiths and none. “My role is to be there for everyone, regardless of their beliefs,” he explained. He also plans to collaborate with local parishes and faith communities across Suffolk to create a welcoming and inclusive environment.

Building a Supportive Culture

The Archdeacon of Suffolk, Ven Rich Henderson, highlighted the vital role of chaplains in various sectors, from hospitals to agriculture. He expressed confidence in Rev Mobbs' ability to support Sizewell C’s workforce.

Julia Pyke, Joint Managing Director at Sizewell C, welcomed Rev Mobbs to the team. “Clive’s spiritual support is a fantastic addition to the resources we already provide on-site. In a short time, he’s made a meaningful impact, including leading our Remembrance Day service,” she said.

As construction progresses, Rev Mobbs looks forward to becoming, in his words, “a mate for the journey” for those working on this monumental project.

Little Saxham, near Bury St Edmunds – CLAAS UK Limited, a leading provider of farm machinery, has been highly commended by Ofsted for its apprenticeship training in land-based engineering. Following its first full inspection in September, the apprenticeship program was rated ‘good’ in four areas, with an ‘outstanding’ mark for apprentice behaviour and attitudes.

Launched in 2022, CLAAS’s apprenticeship program aims to address the demand for skilled land-based engineering technicians. Ofsted praised the program’s focus on developing technical skills for machinery maintenance and repair, noting that apprentices train with industry-experienced instructors and state-of-the-art equipment. According to Ofsted’s report, apprentices are gaining the essential skills needed to service equipment like tractors and combine harvesters and can immediately apply their learning.

“Apprentices develop the high-level technical skills they need to service and repair machinery such as tractors and combine harvesters,” the report stated. It highlighted CLAAS’s small group sessions and individualized coaching, which foster effective learning.

The report also recognized CLAAS’s partnerships with employers within its dealership network, ensuring that training meets industry needs. Apprentices are making substantial progress, attend classes regularly, and are highly motivated to master new skills. Their program also strengthens essential English and mathematical skills, further preparing them for careers in the field.

Inspectors also lauded CLAAS’s structured approach to teaching, which includes exposing apprentices to various career paths within land-based engineering, from tractor and forager work to combine harvester specialization.

Ofsted recommended a few improvements, encouraging CLAAS to help apprentices document and reflect on their learning and to raise awareness of unique challenges within the farming sector, such as mental health and isolation. The report also suggested further training for CLAAS managers and trainers to better support apprentices with undisclosed special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).

At the time of inspection, CLAAS UK’s apprenticeship program enrolled 40 apprentices.