Apprentice Review

Learning and developing skills in the engineering sector and gaining the basic competencies to achieve the award, this is the majority of time here in the initial 6 months, have not yet moved on to the depot but am looking forward, from my knowledge the day to day role of that will be attached to a signalling team learning the role

Yes, During my time here I have learnt and develop numerous new skills that I previously had no knowledge of prior to starting the apprenticeship, the training so far has been great and the instructors provide a lot of help when learning new skills that will be vital in the latter stages of the apprenticeship

The programme so far has been fantastic, my time in the initial 6 months which takes place at network rails facility Westwood located in Coventry the harsh rules associated with this part of the programme leave a lot to be desired as however much they say it is work not school, it is very much treated like a school and you do end up getting bored easily.

Incredibly well organised, however if you need any information it is incredibly hard to seek it out as there is a distinct lack of communication within the apprenticeship between the training provider and the company, often resulting in putting the apprentice in difficult situations and sometimes actively in trouble with either the training provider or the employer itself

The support from network rail is great they are very open and if you do have any issues or problems they are there to support you, they hold meetings monthly to inform you on support networks available such as unions and benevolent funds and ensure you have a smooth transition into the workplace.

The support from the training provider is fantastic they hold catch up sessions and make sure that you are keeping up with coursework and that everyone understands the work that they are completing, they are there to answer any questions you have, to support learning needs and help you if you are having a rough day.

The course gives you the fundamentals on all of the stuff you will be need when moving into the workplace, this gives you basic knowledge and understanding on all of the relevant thing covered in the RETK qualification providing you the base for work on the railway three more words

There is plenty of opportunity for social activities and events and they actively encourage the participation in sport, they hold multiple extra curricular activity session throughout the week from circuits to boxing to football they will even pay for the renting of AstroTurf pitches so that you can play sport

Yes

The company provides one of the best apprenticeships available I personally think that it is a great opportunity and have actively recommended it to multiple friends already and encouraged that they at least apply for it, the pay, benefits and career potential are just incredible as well as the company ethos.

Be honest with your goals and aspirations they want you to go far in the business, network rail is also a safety critical company so focus on safety is essential, there are different roles available so pick one that suits your personal enjoyment as it is a job for life.