Track apprentice Review

I am currently in my 2nd year of the Network Rail Advanced apprenticeship within the track maintenance department. We look after the daily operations and maintenance of the track infrastructure from the rails, ballast, switches and crossings etc. Alongside this I am completing an NVQ in Railway Engineering and working towards gaining Level 3 in ILM.

Lots of new skills and qualifications have been gained on this scheme from on the job practices to job relevant competencies to allow me to further my career. All provided by Network Rail.

I've enjoyed the programme very much. Probably the best career choice I've made. Network Rail have provided a lot for me and it will continue throughout my final year.

As an apprentice I feel I'm an important asset to the company. The training I am receiving is to a very high caliber and it shows that the company want you to progress to higher places in the future.

The scheme is very well organised. Everything you need to know and complete is given to you in a good time frame. The training courses are very well taught in a professional yet friendly manner.

Support has been second to none. The trainers really know their onions and do their best to give you the required knowledge that we need to succeed to a high level.

My manager and workmates have been extremely supportive of me. They acknowledge the tasks I need to complete as part of my course and do their best to accommodate these.

The salary in the first year is slightly low in comparison to other schemes, however, accommodation, food, clothing, and travel is all provided so this does balance out. My wage has increased throughout its tenure.

The opportunities are endless within the railway as an apprentice. Most go on to supervisor level jobs or technical roles as these are the positons we are being trained to fill essentially.

Yes

Fantastic company to work for with one of the best apprenticeship schemes out their. You really feel that you are part of a huge organisation helping to continually upgrade the railway infrastructure.

Competition is tough for this scheme so the initial application needs to be good. At the interview just be yourself and show your keen and interested in the company as they are about to invest a a lot of money in you.