Apprentice signal maintenance engineering technician Review

by Network Rail

Rating

8.2/10

1. Please give an overview of your role and what this involves on a day-to-day basis:

Singnalling technician apprenticeship. In the first 5 months we are based at Westwood beside Coventry where Day to day we do academic studies, including wiring and testing, electrical principles, basic maths and English as well. Then after that we do depot work on site whilst studying too to gain our level 3 in railway engineering

8/10

2. Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?

Yes I've already learned basic electrical craft and principles as well as built on my team leadership skills. I've developed my earth and safety knowledge further as well as improved my fitness which is included in the course

8/10

3. To what extent do you enjoy your programme?

I enjoy the programme very much. You are kept busy with your guides and get to live away from home so you meet a lot of new people and make friends for life.

8/10

4. How valued do you feel by Network Rail?

Very much so, the welfare is top notch. They make sure they look after you very well. They provide travel arrangements including the cost so you et to see your family every so often too.

8/10

5. How well organised/structured is your programme?

Well structured although with this cohort only being the second at Westwood there are still some minor teething problems however it's still a good course so far with informative content

6/10

6a. How much support do you receive from your training provider?

Everyday. Tutors and development officers have an open door policy so you are neer left feeling alone. Monthly meetings and meeting with line managers help you to develop not just here but for the career I intend to build.

9/10

6b. How much support do you receive from your employer?

A massive amount. They have schemes in place if you ever have any hardship and even put you through a fitness course to help you develop not just as a worker but as a person.

9/10

7. How well does your salary/package meet your costs?

For an apprentice it is fairly good(although it doesn't seem like it as it's not actually a lot of money) It then develops to a very good salary after qualification. The pension schemes are also top notch

9/10

8. Are there many opportunities outside of work?

Yes everyday they have leisure facilities here and always run charity events to to keep us busy. Although these aren't mandatory it's good to get out and have some social time.

9/10

9. Would you recommend Network Rail to a friend?

Yes

9b. Why?

It's a fantastic company with great aspirations. The people here really value your work and the company you're working for!

10. What tips or advice would you give to others applying to Network Rail?

Try your hardest, if attirst you don't get in try again because it is a well sought after job and the opportunity when you're in are endless