Track maintenace apprentice Review

My role is apprentice track engineer which involves the maintenance of the track. This includes replacement and repair of track components, using specialist measuring and testing equipment and the use of hand, power and plant tools to carry out day to day tasks.

I am working towards a BTEC and NVQ in rail engineering. This includes surveying, mechanical principles, mechanical systems and permanent way. I have also achieved functional skills qualifications in maths, English reading, English writing and ict. We are also completing a level 3 qualification in ILM.

The working day is very structured and the working hours are suitable for the course. My class work as a team to ensure everyone can complete assignments. I am currently enjoying my time in Portsmouth but I am more looking forward to my time at my depot working towards the level 3 apprenticeship.

I am yet to meet my depot manager, however the manager here at the training centre is supportive of all apprentices. I have received internal recognition from the support staff and different instructors in regards to my performance so I feel recognised within the scheme.

The induction was very well organised and gave me a good insight as to what my role would be and day to day tasks within work. The training has been to an ok standard because staff have been leaving due to the scheme moving locations which has affected certain areas of the scheme. There are good support networks in place if I ever need help or assistance with work or personal issues.

I have a regular one to one with a member of support staff who are available at any time if I have any issues about work or personal issues. The instructors are available to give help within assignments if I come across a problem or do not understand a topic. There is also plenty of information available on their intranet.

The network rail manager is available both days and is approachable if I have any issues or need to raise something with them then im am able to do this quite easily. Network rail are very supportive and are always there to help me if I need any help.

my pay packet currently is decent like. reason being our living costs are covered in the sense of accommodation as well as food. however due to the food being quite bland and not amazing I have to spend money on my own food rather than eat the food that is provided to me. however I am paid quite well and can meet my monthly costs.

there are many opportunities out of work. I regularly go to the gym as well as go to play football on my days off and during the evenings. I use the facilities provided to me by the company as well as by the royal navy base. therefore there are plenty of opportunities for me to stay active and healthy.

Yes

there are so so many different reasons as to why I would quite highly recommend network rail to a friend. firstly I am doing an engineering apprenticeship that pays well. also I get very good qualifications and once I have completed this scheme I can earn some serious money. thus I would highly recommend this to my friends.

there are so many tips that I can give but for this question I will keep it brief. firstly make sure you do research about the company. secondly make sure you know what you are on about and have relative knowledge about the apprenticeship scheme. also try to be professional and confident when going for the interview.