RET Apprentice Review
at Network Rail
Level 3 Apprenticeship
Engineering
Newport / Casnewydd
Review Submitted: February 2026
Overall Rating
4.6 /5
The Overall Rating is the average of all the ratings given in each category. We take those individual ratings and combine them into one final score!
4.5/5
-
Overview of Role
5/5
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Skills Development
4.6/5
-
Structure and Support
Overview of Role
Please give an overview of your role and what this involves on a day-to-day basis:
4/5
Study and Training, block training where I learn a variety of topics. Including first aid, mental and electrical. Inspiro learning, health and safety and legislation learning. Shadowing, learn from experienced technicians.
To what extent do you enjoy your programme?
5/5
Every week is different and brings new opportunities and challenges, this definitely is the reason why I find the apprenticeship so enjoyable.
Skills Development
Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?
5/5
I have developed many physical skills, like changing a sleeper and fishplates. Communication is something that I have also developed as it is critical in this industry.
Structure and Support
How well organised/structured is your programme?
5/5
The separation between inspiro and network rail is great, there is the academic side and the work/training side. This is easy to see and makes the structure feel organised.
How much support do you receive from your employer?
5/5
There are lots of contacts available for any issue imaginable. You are also encouraged to speak out if you have any concerns.
How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?
5/5
When learning from inspiro instructors they encourage all and any questions, they also have contacts for any concerns that you may have.
How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?
5/5
The health and safety taught through inspiro has been very relevant within the work I have done.
Are there extra-curricular activities to get involved in at your work? (For example, any social activities, sports teams, or even professional networking events.)
3/5
There are events that take place throughout the year where you can attend, also work parties. To my knowledge there are no sports teams.
Recommendations & Advice
Would you recommend Network Rail to a friend?
Yes
Why?
Great and a clear pathway for apprentices to progress. Lots of movement available within the company. Lots of support available.
What tips or advice would you give to others applying to Network Rail?
Research the company and their values and beliefs. Find out and learn the lifesaving rules. Have a genuine curiosity about the industry and be willing to learn and ask questions.
