Engineering and Technology Graduate Scheme Review

There is a significant lack of clarity and support regarding visa sponsorship and immigration matters. Throughout the scheme, there has often been uncertainty around post-graduate employment options for those requiring sponsorship, with communication on eligibility, sponsorship requirements, and organisational policies sometimes arriving very last minute. It seems there is very limited understanding within the company regarding the nuances and time-critical nature of visa requirements.
This creates considerable stress and makes it difficult for graduates to plan their careers and personal lives with confidence. In some cases, individuals have been left without clarity on their future employment until very close to visa deadlines, and had to leave the company and country. I believe the organisation could do much more to support international talent through clearer communication, earlier decision-making, and dedicated guidance on immigration-related matters.

I have completed three rotations so far: Bakerloo Line Upgrade programme, Systems Performance and Integration, and LU Renewals Sponsorship. I enjoy being able to meet different people, being able to create a positive impact on the city by solving problems and building my knowledge.

I have been able to contribute meaningfully through my work and have generally felt valued by my immediate team. However, my experience with organisational support as an international graduate has made me feel less valued by the wider company. The lack of clarity, timely communication, and support regarding visa sponsorship has created significant uncertainty about my future with the organisation. This has given me the impression that retaining international graduates is not a priority, despite the skills and contributions we bring.

The free travel for the employee and one nominee is very valuable. The pension and annual leave packages are good too. However, the pay structure using job families makes it feel like employees do not get rewarded for any extra responsibilities or delivering working beyond the scope of their role.

My line managers and colleagues were generally very supportive throughout the graduate scheme. They provided valuable guidance, trusted me with meaningful work, and were invested in my professional development. The graduate network was also a strong source of support, and I benefited from the willingness of colleagues across the organisation to share their knowledge and experience.
However, my experience with HR was not great. As an international graduate, I often felt that there was a lack of understanding of the complexities and urgency associated with visa and immigration requirements. Decisions and communications relating to sponsorship have significant implications for an individual's ability to remain in the UK and continue their employment, yet these issues did not always appear to be handled with the level of expertise, ownership, or urgency that they required.
There was a clear lack of understanding of visa requirements set out by the Home Office, and a lack of willingness to support international employees. Changes to internal policies are not communicated clearly and timely, leading to anxiety and uncertainty around future employment and even the right to stay in the country. Even when graduates flag their issues and concerns in advance, little is done to support us.

Yes

It is a great company to work for if you are not an international employee.