Apprentice Railway Technition Review

On a day to day basis, I carry out maintenance on signalling equipment. Some days, we are on faulting where we attend any failures within our area. Each day my team will clearly talk me through what is happening and what they are doing and then show me and oversee me carrying out the tasks.

I have learn may new skills. I had never done engineering before. I have learnt what the different functions of the railway are for example a track circuit. I have learn how to carry out annual maintenance on the equipment as well as quarterly maintenance. I have been taught how to check for different faults on the equipment and the things in which can cause these failures.

Every day is a new opportunity to learn something new which is great. My team are always happy to answer any questions which makes it more enjoyable as I can approach them when I need to. Its an exciting opportunity to learn more of how the railway works and to also be involved with any improvements that are made to it.

The first few months are based away from home. This was good as it meant that there where no distractions from the work that we where doing. It also meant that we are all there for the same reason and means we can discuss the work if we need to. Once at depot, I know exactly where I am based for the next couple of years and what placements I will be on. All the written work is easily laid out and made clear what is expected.

My employer has always been on hand for me to contact. I am able to email, call and text and I will always get a response. If I have any issues in which I need to discuss I am able to do so and we are always able to resolve any issues I may be facing.

Every time I have been away with training, all trainers ensure that everyone in the class understands what has been said. It explained in more than one way which is useful as not everyone learns the same. When at the depot, my team are always supporting me and I know who I can contact should I need help with my written assignments.

I feel that with my qualification, it provides me with all the knowledge I need to have a great understanding of the job. All the assignments and courses we undertake are relevant to our role. Each department has the basic lessons which are the same and then we also have specific assignments to the role we are doing.

Network rail are always taking part in many charity events. These are all available for any employee to sign up to. These are always well advertised on the companies intranet. There are also days in which we attend for things such as safety briefings, these are always interactive and an enjoyable experience.

Yes

Network rail offers all the training that you need to carry out a role. There is continuing support the whole time you are with the company. They provide a career for you not just a job. There are always different aspects of the railway in which you can explore throughout your career.

To be honest about what you want to do, you want to be enjoying the role in which you change, and this in tern will mean that you are always giving your best because its something you want to be doing. It can be daunting at first, but you do quickly pick up the role, the equipment you use and the daily tasks that you undertake.