Crossrail Operations Engineering Apprentice

"It ticked all the boxes for what I wanted to learn and achieve."

"It ticked all the boxes for what I wanted to learn and achieve."

My goal is to be a fully qualified railway engineer and I'm on track to reach this through the Crossrail apprenticeship scheme.

Before joining TfL, I left school with nine GCSE's and went on to do an advanced technology BTEC in engineering at Procat College. I joined the Crossrail scheme in September (2016) because it ticked all the boxes for what I wanted to learn and achieve.

Since starting the scheme I've had a mix of classroom-taught learning as well as the hands-on experience. You get so much support on the scheme and I am excited to start my first placement out in the business where I can start applying my new knowledge and really make a difference.

TfL's engineering apprenticeship opens up so many opportunities as it gives you experiences in a range of engineering placements. Everyday our service is used and I love knowing that what I do makes a difference.

My advice to someone just starting out would be to research the company and make sure it fits with your values and behaviours. It’s so important to understand the organisation you’re going to work in and I know I made the right choice because I enjoy everyday. You’ll learn so many skills when you join an apprenticeship, from team work, communication skills and I even surprised myself with my analytical ability.

Everyone is so friendly, and as a young apprentice it was nice to come into an organisation that was so welcoming and knowing that people want you to do well.