Apprentice Review

I work in the Track department, so an average day to day basis for me is either out with the maintenance or inspection gangs. If I am in maintenance the chances are we go out lifting and packing and correcting L2 faults. When I am with Inspection I walk the track Wednesday and Thursday then do very light maintenance on Monday, Tuesday and Friday's.

I have learnt many new skills, I know how to dig out a sleeper thoroughly, I know how to visually inspect the rail as I walk. The most important skill that I value is the ability to work fluidly within a group and anticipate their needs as and when they arise so that I am better able to assist the team in my apprentice role.

I am thoroughly enjoying my experience, the skills and competencies I am learning are invaluable, they will also go a long way to helping me in the future when I get a job within Network Rail. The programme has taught me how to work well in a team as well as the different types of people within Network Rail.

The structure of the apprenticeship is alright, it could be better organised when apprentices first go to Sultan i.e the guide that isn't given till Monday which isn't helpful to people on a Sunday night when arriving as they don't know what to really do when they first get there.

I receive a lot of support from my Line Manager and Depot manager, any problems I have had in the past they have been rectified immediately and with a quick solution that worked. The support when I first started depot is amazing and made me feel really welcome at depot.

At my depot I receive all of the support I need with studies and working towards qualifications. The apprenticeship has kinks to work out before they can be classed as supportive to apprentices as there is a lot of information that isn't filtered when it should be.

It means I am qualified for the job and can be mentored fully.

No

No

I would recommend the company to work for but not the scheme.

Check what the scheme consists of.