Britain’s railway to recruit 2,000 apprentices in its 200th anniversary year
by Educate Magazine February 10, 2025 · All News / Education News
To mark National Apprenticeship Week 2025 (10-16 February), Britain’s railway has announced plans to recruit 2,000 apprentices during its bicentenary year, and at least 10,000 over the next five years.
A range of one to four-year apprenticeships are available, for people from all backgrounds and ages – whether entering the workplace for the first time or looking to retrain in a career move.
Roles are being offered by employers across the UK and the rail industry, including Network Rail, train and freight operators, manufacturers and the rail supply chain.
Roles available range from engineering to finance, train driving to sustainability, and IT to human resources, customer service and operations.
Rail’s support for National Apprenticeship Week coincides with the 200th anniversary of the modern railway, which is being celebrated as part of Railway 200 – a year-long programme aimed at helping to attract the next generation of pioneering talent.
The recruitment and training drive will help to deliver a more digitally driven, sustainable railway and champion the next generation of colleagues in rail, helping to develop vital new skills within the industry.
Apprenticeships combine on-the-job learning with study and are open to both young people and adult learners.
The railway seeks to be more representative of the society it serves and is striving to attract more women, people from ethnic minorities and those with neurodiversity.
Jacqueline Starr, chief executive officer of Rail Delivery Group, said: “Apprenticeships provide a fantastic opportunity for people to start their careers in a variety of roles in rail. The rail industry plays a vital role in connecting communities and supporting the economy, and we need a diverse range of skills and perspectives to create the workforce of the future.
“As we celebrate the railway’s rich heritage, we’re looking to the future, investing in our people to help us deliver the high-quality, innovative service that passengers expect.”
Rail Minister Lord Hendy said: “From personal experience I know how rewarding a career in the rail industry is. It is brilliant to see so many opportunities available, from roles for those wanting to start their careers to people keen to learn new skills and develop, in a fast-paced and exciting sector.
“The railways have a long history of innovation and Railway 200 represents the perfect opportunity to look to the future and inspire the next generation. I encourage everyone looking for a new challenge to discover how they can use their unique skills and talents to help build the railways of the future.”
, said: “These are good apprenticeships, mostly in skills shortage disciplines, that are recognised all around the world. We are looking for committed people from a wide range of backgrounds to fill them.”</p>
<p>Those who wish to explore opportunities within rail can find out more about the apprenticeships that are available across the industry via the <a href=)
Routes into Rail website. Roles are also advertised on the Network Rail website and by individual train operating companies.
