Overhead Line Apprentice Review

My role is as an overhead line apprentice with network rail. On a day-to-day basis I learn about, through practical and theoretical work, maintenance and renewal of overhead line equipment.

Throughout my time I have definitely become a more confident person and more willing to speak my mind and chip in my two cents. I have leaned various railway related skills that I can apply in my working day, such as overhead line maintenance 1, 2 & 3.

I've enjoyed parts of my programme and other parts not so much. The courses have been good and I've learned a lot on them, as have my placements with other departments within network rail (such as PWay, S+T and GZAC). My day-to-day work I have not enjoyed so much.

I think when you're on the apprenticeship, especially in the first year, Network Rail certainly make you feel valued. Upon finishing the first year however, you simply become another number and you don't really feel valued. Having said that, just because you don't feel valued doesn't mean you feel undervalued.

The course is structured fairly well, with deadlines for the submission of work being logical and achievable. Where the course is unstructured however is with training courses, which were pretty all over the place. I appreciate this is because courses are carried out at Network Rail training centres which deal with all staff not just apprentices.

The support is there if you need it, and you will always find someone to help you even if others won't. They can be a little difficult to get in contact with sometimes though.

The support is there if you need it, and you will always find someone to help you even if others won't. They can be a little difficult to get in contact with sometimes though.

As someone who is living at home, the salary is very good for me. Certainly compared to other apprenticeships it also a very good yearly salary. The overtime pay however is poor and in no way enticed me to do any.

There are no opportunities outside of work that I have heard of.

No

Although the salary is good, the training interesting and the qualifications good, I would not recommend the course as a way to get a good job as eventually you are simply seen as another body the same as everyone else. You may as well just join off the street and get the higher salary. Good if you want the qualifications however, like myself.

Try your hardest and get all of your coursework handed in on time and to the best of your ability - you want a good grade in the qualifications as these will stay with you. Be interested in the what others in the railway have to say, take on board what they're telling you about their job. Ignore the people who think you're just another number and useless.