Guide to Transport for London (TfL) Apprenticeships
For those of you who don’t live in London… TfL stands for Transport for London.
TFL are the people responsible for London’s big red buses, classic black cabs and every single underground AND overground station in the city. In short, TfL employees provide a service to millions of grumpy commuters every single day.
And there’s never been a more exciting time to start working for them. Just like Greta Thunberg, TfL are devoted to making London GREEN by reducing the carbon footprint of each Londoner. As well as running campaigns that encourage travel by public transport, they now have a fleet of 200 electric buses!
Sounds like something you’d want to be part of? An apprenticeship is your one-way ticket to a successful career with TfL. These schemes are a fantastic way of gaining experience and professional qualifications, all whilst being paid. Can’t argue with that.
So, without further ado, here is your guide to TfL apprenticeships.
In a hurry?
What kind of apprenticeships are available?
TfL apprenticeships fall into three sectors - business, engineering and technology.
Business Apprenticeships
Working on the business side of TfL requires apprentices who are natural networkers, proactive problem-solvers and ludicrously good leaders.
Got all that down? Great! Here are a few business apprenticeships TfL have to offer:
Finance
Level 4
Duration: 24 months
Salary: £20,231
Due to changes, TfL will become the first transport organisation in Europe to be independently funded by the financial year 2022/23. This means that TfL is looking for innovative and self-driven individuals to help transform them into an independent organisation.
To get onto this apprenticeship, you will need to be at least 18 years old and have a minimum of 5 A*-C grades at GCSE level, including Maths and English. On top of this, you will need at least 2 A-Levels in any subject, but they must be at least A*-D grades or equivalent.
Not found what you’re looking for? Don’t worry! There are more business apprenticeships for TfL. For more information, click here.
(FYI - TfL are always improving their schemes, so be sure to check the official website for up-to-date information!)
Engineering Apprenticeships
For over 150 years, TfL engineers have been working to keep London going through the good times and the hard.
TfL is looking for inquisitive, hands-on and creative individuals who aren’t afraid of working under pressure. Think you can handle it? See if any of their available apprenticeships are right for you...
London Underground Engineering
Level 3
Duration: 36 months
Salary: From £19,268
As an engineer, you’ll be at the forefront of the development of technological advancements. You can choose which area you’d like to apply for - these are the ones available:
Track
Power
Lifts and Escalators
Signals
Fleet
To get onto this apprenticeship, you will need to be at least 17 years old and have a minimum of 5 A*-C grades at GCSE level, including Maths and English.
Civil Engineering
Level 6
Duration: 66 months
Salary: £22,305
Civil engineers are crucial to London’s transport system. They keep the city moving. Apprentices in this area look after the thousands of bridges and hundreds of miles of tunnels and roads.
Currently, TfL apprentices are working on projects that include Crossrail II and the extension to the Northern Line.
To qualify for this apprenticeship, you’ll need a minimum of 5 GCSE passes, including passes in Maths and English. In addition, you will need 3 A Levels (A*-C or equivalent), including Maths and a Science subject. All applicants must be over 18 years old.
Don’t think this is for you? Fair enough! There are more engineering apprenticeships for TfL. You can find them here.
(FYI - TfL are always improving their schemes, so make sure to check the official website for up-to-date information!)
Technology Apprenticeships
Do you crave a face-paced, intellectually-stimulating career? Join a TfL technology apprenticeship!
Software Development
Level 4
Duration: 24 months
Salary: £20,231
Apprentices work within the software teams, assisting them in updating and creating websites, creating apps AND writing professional code!
If you apply for this scheme, you’ll be trained to write high-quality code using a variety of programming languages. At the same time, you’ll be getting invaluable experience with using high-tech and innovative software.
To get onto this apprenticeship, you will need to be at least 18 years old and have a minimum of 5 A*-C grades at GCSE level, including Maths and English. On top of this, you will need at least 2 A Levels in any subject but they must be at least A*-D grades or equivalent.
Business Analysis
Level 4
Duration: 18 months
Salary: £20,231
In this role, you’ll be constantly working on new and exciting projects for the TfL. You need to be a motivated individual with fresh ideas - someone who is confident to speak up when a light bulb moment hits them.
On the job, you’ll learn practical skills such as product development, software development, data analysis and user testing. You’ll be customer-focused, inspiring and influencing the future of London.
To get onto this apprenticeship, you will need to be at least 18 years old and have a minimum of 5 A*-C grades at GCSE level, including Maths and English. On top of this, you will also need at least 2 A Levels in any subject but they must be at least A*-D grades or equivalent.
For the latest information on technology apprenticeships for TfL, click here!
(FYI - TfL are always improving their schemes, so remember to check the official website for up-to-date information!)
Benefits?
Working for TfL has SO many benefits. Bear in mind that the perks and rewards will depend on your role and which area of the business you work in, but here are a few you can expect as a TfL apprentice…
FREE travel for you (and a nominated buddy) on the entire TfL network. That should save a massive amount of pennies and pounds. Everyone will be jealous.
A minimum of 29 days of annual leave. More than enough time to visit Harry Potter Studios at least four times.
A 75% discount on a National Rail Season Ticket. That’s huuuge!
Cycle-to-work programme. Bring a helmet.
Tax-efficient childcare payments.
Retail, health, leisure and travel offers.
These perks and benefits are added on top of the giant benefits you’ll enjoy as an apprentice. You’ll have a full-time job, get career-launching qualifications AND receive a handsome salary, all at the same time. ’Tis the dream.