Operations Review

Item: Operations at Network Rail
Rating: 4.3
Author: Anonymous

at Network Rail

Level 3 Apprenticeship

Business Operations

Perth

Review Submitted: March 2026

Overall Rating

4.3 /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

4/5 - Skills Development

4/5 - 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

I completed an apprenticeship in railway operations and passenger management. I thoroughly enjoyed the apprenticeship as it deepened my knowledge of the operational railway and how businesses function whilst prioritising strategic objectives.

To what extent do you enjoy your programme?

5/5

Skills Development

Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?

4/5

- I have deepened and broadened my overall railway knowledge.
- I have a greater understanding of strategic decision making within the railway environment.
- I understand to a greater how Train Operating Companies and Freight Operating Companies build strong working relationships with Network Rail.

Structure and Support

How well organised/structured is your programme?

4/5

I would say the programme was reasonably organised although I feel that the tasks often did not coincide with our day-to-day experience in our role. For example a freight planning task when very few delegates had experience of either freight or planning.

How much support do you receive from your employer?

4/5

I received support throughout my apprenticeship from my line manager who offered advice and also delegated sufficient time for me to complete my studies.

How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?

3/5

I received an adequate amount of support from my training provider although I feel that the feedback given from tasks often didn't make sense.

How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?

5/5

I feel that the information I learned from the apprenticeship enhanced and broadened my knowledge as a whole so therefore will always benefit my future career.

Are there extra-curricular activities to get involved in at your work? (For example, any social activities, sports teams, or even professional networking events.)

4/5

I personally ensured that I attended as many events and conferences as possible.

Recommendations & Advice

Would you recommend Network Rail to a friend?

Yes

Why?

Network Rail provides both fantastic early career opportunities and also long term development opportunities in a fast paced and complex public transport system.