Network Rail’s new training facility in Doncaster is already making a difference in helping apprentices develop the skills needed to maintain, improve and future-proof Britain’s railway.
In the past year, Network Rail has welcomed 290 joiners into its apprenticeship programmes. This forms part of the organisation’s wider commitment to developing skilled talent, with 1,780 apprentices recruited during the last five years.
Last weekend (Sunday 8 February) marked 100 days since Network Rail revealed the name of the centre – the Gresley Institute – following a public vote. The building has been transformed into a modern centre for operational training, education and development. The first apprentices transferred their studies on the operations apprenticeship course to the centre in October, with final assessments taking place this week – coincidentally National Apprenticeship Week (9-15 February).
There are 21 classrooms across two floors, with equipment such as signalling simulators – both traditional lever-pull models and modern systems with visual display units. The centre will eventually train up to 1,000 rail industry colleagues each year.
Apprentice Peter Turner, 29, from Newcastle, said:
“I knew the railway was a great industry to come into for career progression, and I’ve really enjoyed myself since I’ve started in the business. I’ve enjoyed going out on different placements, like with the mobile operations managers or sitting with the control centre, but I think I’ve definitely enjoyed the signal train the most so far. For anyone considering this apprenticeship, I’d say look it up, go for it – it might be the best decision you’ll ever make.”
Apprentice Lewis Adey, 30, from County Durham, said:
“I was looking for something new, like a new challenge in my career and this looked like a good opportunity to get into. Being here at the Doncaster Training Centre, with the group and seeing the progression we’re making, that’s been the best part of it. Having a set facility like this means you see the day-to-day rail activity but you have a separation for your studying. You haven’t got all the distractions that you would in some other buildings.”
Through its wide range of apprenticeship schemes, Network Rail offers hands-on experience and long-term career development across engineering, business, IT, and finance. Apprentices earn while they learn, gaining the skills needed to support the safe and reliable operation of the railway and help connect communities across Britain.
Richard Turner, Network Rail’s head of apprenticeships, said:
“Apprentices play a vital role in keeping Britain’s railway running safely and reliably, and we’re proud to welcome nearly 300 new joiners this year across engineering, business, IT and finance.
“Our programmes give people hands-on experience, the chance to earn while they learn, and the skills to build long-term careers. They also help us develop the next generation of STEM* talent and create a diverse, future-ready workforce for the railway.”
As one of the UK’s top 100 apprenticeship employers, Network Rail continues to develop talented apprentices across the railway. Take the first step towards an exciting career in rail at networkrail.co.uk/apprenticeships.
Image credit: Network Rail
