Rail infrastructure operator apprentice Review
at Network Rail
Level 3 Apprenticeship
Logistics and Operations
Basingstoke
Review Submitted: February 2026
Overall Rating
4.9 /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!
5/5
-
Overview of Role
5/5
-
Skills Development
4.8/5
-
Structure and Support
Overview of Role
Please give an overview of your role and what this involves on a day-to-day basis:
5/5
Learning and exploring a range of departments within operations that contribute to the safe operation of the railway. Including 12 week signalling course to become a signaller.
To what extent do you enjoy your programme?
5/5
Really great range of placements organised by line manager, with the freedom to explore areas I wished in more depth. Good balance between areas designed to support the apprenticeship, show off what Network Rail has to offer and fun.
Fantastic people met along the way with networking and connections made for the future.
Fantastic people met along the way with networking and connections made for the future.
Skills Development
Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?
5/5
Knew nothing about the railway prior to this.
Now a competent loggist, level crossing keeper and signaller. As well as development non technical skills along the way.
Now a competent loggist, level crossing keeper and signaller. As well as development non technical skills along the way.
Structure and Support
How well organised/structured is your programme?
4/5
Balance between apprenticeship team and line manager well organised. Few bumps across the year with the apprenticeship side of things, however, they have constantly asked for feedback to help improve going forward.
How much support do you receive from your employer?
5/5
Couldn’t ask for more support. Whether it’s help chasing up information, sign positing or providing a new contact for additional placements.
How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?
5/5
Flexible for one to one calls to support. Good feedback on assignments and reports submitted. Detailed 3 monthly reviews.
How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?
5/5
Very well designed to work towards an end goal of signalling or another role within Operations.
Are there extra-curricular activities to get involved in at your work? (For example, any social activities, sports teams, or even professional networking events.)
5/5
Multiple events and conferences throughout the year. Various social groups. I personally participated in two Pride marches with Network Rail in 2025
Recommendations & Advice
Would you recommend Network Rail to a friend?
Yes
Why?
Have really been looked after and supported since day one. Great people and teams. Safety focused.
What tips or advice would you give to others applying to Network Rail?
It doesn’t matter if you have prior knowledge or not. Be yourself, be authentic. Research what you’re applying for and focus on transferable skills.
