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Thursday 14 Aug 2025

Get back on track: Students encouraged to give Network Rail apprenticeships a try

Region & Route:

National

With A-Level results day here, Network Rail is encouraging young people to consider apprenticeships as a valuable and rewarding alternative, offering real career opportunities and practical experience in a key industry.

Network Rail has been recognised as one of the UK’s leading apprenticeship employers in the Department for Education’s Top 100 Apprenticeship Employers 2025 list*. The annual rankings celebrate outstanding commitment to apprenticeship programmes across all sectors, showcasing employers who provide exceptional training, career opportunities, and long-term support for learners.

Network Rail’s apprenticeships offer hands-on experience, structured learning, and nationally recognised qualifications, helping to develop the next generation of rail industry experts, gaining skills that contribute to the essential running of the railway, connecting people and passengers across Britain.

Zakariya Nabil, 22, from Buckinghamshire, began his career as an apprentice in 2023 and is now half way through his level 6 engineering apprenticeship.

Zak said: “Choosing an apprenticeship over university was the best decision for me. I get to learn through hands-on experience while gaining real qualifications. I’ve discovered so much variety in my role, from site visits to design work which keeps every day exciting. I’d encourage anyone interested in engineering to consider an apprenticeship with Network Rail as t’s a fantastic way to build your skills and shape your future.”

Over 1,435 new apprentices have been employed over the last five years, across a range of roles, including engineering, project management, IT, and operations.

Richard Turner, Network Rail’s head of apprenticeships, said: “Apprentices are a vital part of the workforce, and we’re dedicated to helping them succeed and being recognised by the Department for Education as one of the UK’s top apprenticeship employers shows our commitment to investing in people, delivering high-quality training, and creating rewarding careers.

"The recognition highlights Network Rail's inclusive and welcoming scheme, which equips apprentices with valuable skills for life, both on and beyond the railway."

For more information about Network Rail’s apprenticeship opportunities, visit: Apprenticeships - Network Rail