New research commissioned by Network Rail to coincide with National Apprenticeship Week reveals that over half (51%) of UK adults would consider an apprenticeship if they were starting their career again.
The study underscores the growing recognition of apprenticeships as a valuable entry point into the workforce, with 86% of respondents agreeing that they offer an excellent way to launch a career.*
The research highlights the potential for apprenticeships to address skills gaps and provide individuals with practical, real-world experience. Jordanna Mills, 23, from Ashford, Kent, is a prime example. After completing Network Rail’s Level 3 apprenticeship scheme, she secured a permanent position as a principal technical officer within the maintenance team.
Jordanna said: “During my time in sixth form, I was quite uncertain about which engineering route I wanted to go down. I wasn’t sure whether university and classroom based learning suited my desire for practical and real world experience. After researching several different paths, I discovered the Level 3 apprenticeship scheme, and haven’t looked back since.
“I’d encourage anyone thinking of applying to take time and research as I believe there’s really good value in apprenticeship schemes across the rail sector. I also like the idea that my essential skills will contribute to the future of railway infrastructure in the UK.”
Richard Turner, Network Rail’s head of apprenticeships, said: “We’re really committed to investing in the future talent that we need to build, maintain, and run Britain’s railway, and apprentices are a vital part of that.
“We want to attract more apprentices to the railway and are looking forward to working with Skills England to offer shorter, more flexible railway apprenticeships, helping us maximise our Skills & Growth Levy which aims to strengthen the connection between the education and rail sectors.
“Our schemes have no upper age limits and are suitable for anyone and everyone wanting to build a career in the railway. You don’t need to follow a traditional university path to make a real impact in an industry that keeps millions moving every day – all that we ask is that our applicants have a passion for making a difference.”
The research also identified misconceptions among young people aged 18-21, with only 59% having considered a rail career despite 68% being regular rail users. A quarter of this group assumed a lack of roles matching their skills.
Contrary to these perceptions, the railway industry is a significant contributor to the UK economy and skills development, directly employing over 100,000 people in diverse roles and generating £26 billion in economic, environmental, and social benefits annually.**
Network Rail’s diverse apprenticeship schemes offer hands-on experience and career progression across various disciplines, including engineering, business, IT, and finance. These opportunities enable individuals to earn while they learn, developing skills essential to the operation of the national rail network. Fardosa Said, 24, from West London, recently joined Network Rail’s project management apprenticeship scheme in 2023.
As a recognised Top 100 Apprenticeship Employer in the UK, Network Rail has recruited 1,435 new apprentices over the past five years.** Including upskilling existing employees, the total number of apprentices within Network Rail over the last five years is 3,600.
For more information and to apply for Network Rail’s apprenticeship schemes, please visit networkrail.co.uk/apprenticeships.
*Survey conducted by OnePoll (respondent size equals 2,000 people across the UK).
**Source: ‘Beyond the tracks: Rail’s contribution to the UK – a WPI Economics Report for Rail Delivery Group’, 14 November 2024 **Over the past five years, Network Rail has upskilled around 2,165 of its workers into various apprenticeship schemes, bringing the total number of apprentices to 3,600 over this period.
