Track Maintenance Technician Apprentice Review

My job title is Track Maintenance Apprentice, the role involves working within a number of different disciplines during the apprenticeship. The main discipline I am involved with is track or Permanent way, within this section I have been involved with scoping up a job, emergency clamping, marking up for the tamper, track patrolling and track maintenance tasks such as sleeper changing at night.

I've started to under take my competencies which are internal qualifications, run by and examined by Network Rail. I've built on existing communication skills and how everyone needs a different approach to tasks.

The initial 6 months of training in Westwood was enjoyable but since joining my depot and visiting HMS Sultan for competencies I am enjoying the programme even more as there is a real life application.

I have felt appreciated by Network Rail during my apprenticeship so far , with my respective managers and team leaders have different approaches of making you feel required and part of the day to day running.

I feel the programme as a whole is very well structured and everything has been meticulously planned. The support and facilities for studying at Westwood were outstanding. The induction at HMS Sultan was very well run and gave a lot of apprentices there first taste of the railway and railway specific tasks. However the management of the contract changes and how we as a cohort have been dealt with since has not been acceptable.

Everyone receives a good level of support with any one who requires additional support allocated extra time and or resources to help them through the course. In terms of support all tutors and WDS instructors provide as much support as possible.

As with the previous question a lot of support is provided although in most cases this requires a lot of effort to generate it and get into contact with the required person.

In the first year the salary did not meet my requirements as I had to move away from home after the initial training period where I saved up all the money I could to put a rental deposit and have enough money for food. Although the first year wage has been increased in the last 6 months this wouldn't of greatly enhanced the amount of money left for bills and food at the end of the month. The second and third year wages are more in line with a normal wage but are still below levels of other apprenticeships which are no more technical. I am fortunate that I have a staff pass due to the alliance which is in place on my route.

There are several volunteering opportunities and company events to help with Networking and furthering contacts. Outside of work it is dependent on your location and interests for sports and clubs.

Yes

I would recommend Network Rail to a friend who has an interest in the railway as it provides a route into the railway and is a very rewarding job in the long run.

There is a length application process which does take a lot of patience but it is straight forward and it isn't looking to catch people out. The interview process / assessment days are very well structured and they make you as relaxed as possible. The on boarding process is very good , they ensure all details are communicated way before they are required, this is includes DSS clearance for HMS Sultan. The PPE measurements and requirements are also communicated way in advance.