Rail Engineer Apprentice Review
at Network Rail
Level 3 Apprenticeship
Electronic and Electrical Engineering, Engineering, Mechanical Engineering
Manchester
Review Submitted: March 2026
Overall Rating
4.5 /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
4.2/5
-
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
As a Network Rail Signalling Technician I maintain, test, and repair critical railway signalling infrastructure including points, train detection systems, and signals to ensure safe train movements. My typical day involves job specific training, NVQ work towards electrical and mechanical certifications and on the job training.
To what extent do you enjoy your programme?
5/5
The programme is very well organised and structured. The balance between on the job work and study time is great so far.
Skills Development
Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?
5/5
I will learn electrical and mechanical skills that are railway specific as well as developing life skills such as communication and problem solving. I have learnt about health and safety within the railway industry and how to protect myself and my team from hazards.
Structure and Support
How well organised/structured is your programme?
4/5
The programme is well structured and there is an apprentice support team available to guide apprentices throughout their journey. Training is organised into block dates.
How much support do you receive from your employer?
5/5
There are lots of support networks available to apprentices, from the dedicated apprentice teams to job specific teams, ex apprentices and internal forums and networks.
How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?
5/5
The external training providers are dedicated to the apprentices and can be contacted at any time for support or guidance. There are regular 121s to review progress.
How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?
4/5
Learning towards a level 3 NVQ in electrical and mechanical engineering provides a solid foundation for the role I will progress into.
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
Not that I know of, but to be fair I haven't looked.
Recommendations & Advice
Would you recommend Network Rail to a friend?
Yes
Why?
Network Rail is a big organisation with the ability to progress into any role that interests you. The apprentice scheme is well respected and has clear progression. People are friendly and you can really feel part of the railway family.
What tips or advice would you give to others applying to Network Rail?
Be yourself. Research Network Rail and what its values are. Tell them something about you that makes you different from other candidates.
