Media centre

Monday 17 Jan 2011

8,000 TARGET RAIL APPRENTICE PLACES (Yorkshire)

Region & Route:

Interest in Network Rail’s apprentice scheme has rocketed with twice as many pre-registering for the award winning scheme as last year, with almost 8,000* people competing for around 200 places. In Yorkshire there are just over 20 places available with the biggest intakes in Doncaster and York depots.

In recent years, interest in the scheme has soared but there has also been a massive shift in the age profile of the apprentices. In 2007 the majority (64%) of apprentices were aged 17-18. Last year this had almost halved (35%) and 43% of apprentices were aged 19-21. Apprentices aged over 22 have increased five-fold in this time, comprising over a fifth of its intake in 2010 (22%), with its oldest apprentice aged 35.

As the scheme opens for applications, Network Rail has called for a national debate on the funding for older apprentices. Equal funding support for 19+s as for those aged 16-18 would help businesses across Britain drive recovery and create as many apprenticeships as possible. There is 50% less support for apprentices aged 19 or over, making it more costly to run a scheme as more older apprentices join.

Paul Rutter, route infrastructure maintenance director, said: “The huge numbers we're attracting each year shows young people recognise an apprenticeship can offer a path to a challenging and rewarding career. For us it has proven great value in investing in our people.

“With such competition for places, it is vital that if business is to lead this country to economic recovery, the right support is needed. A more flexible approach offering equal support for all apprentices, whatever their age, would help businesses large and small create the apprenticeships and the skilled workforce Britain needs to thrive."

Alex Wise is a signalling and telecoms apprentice in York and was 19 when he joined the scheme. He said: “Living and learning on the Navy base in the first year really helped me go out into the world by standing on my own feet. This support allows you the freedom to live and get on with 200 other apprentices around the same age. It was brilliant to meet all these new people and create friendships that will last for the rest of my life.

“I’m now gaining experience out on the on track with teams in our depot with an opportunity to learn back at Gosport every term for 2 weeks. This is a great chance to upgrade our knowledge and meet back with all my mates from the first year. To sum up you gain great experiences a great skill and brilliant friendships.”