Project Controls Degree Apprentice Review
at Network Rail
Degree Apprenticeship
Project Management
Manchester
Review Submitted: October 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 Project Controls Apprentice at Network Rail, my role involves supporting major infrastructure and railway projects to ensure they are delivered safely, on time, and within budget. On a day-to-day basis, I work alongside experienced project managers and controls specialists to monitor project timelines, track costs, manage risk registers, and produce performance reporting dashboards.
To what extent do you enjoy your programme?
5/5
I thoroughly enjoy the balance between real-world practical experience on complex national infrastructure projects and academic study toward a full degree. The support from mentors, teams, and the structured learning environment at Network Rail makes it extremely rewarding.
Skills Development
Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?
5/5
Time & Workload Management: Balancing full-time project responsibilities with degree-level university assignments has refined my ability to prioritize tasks, meet tight deadlines, and manage my time effectively.
Communication & Stakeholder Management: Working across multi-disciplinary teams within Network Rail has significantly improved my confidence in presenting reports, facilitating progress meetings, and clearly communicating project risks to stakeholders.
Communication & Stakeholder Management: Working across multi-disciplinary teams within Network Rail has significantly improved my confidence in presenting reports, facilitating progress meetings, and clearly communicating project risks to stakeholders.
Structure and Support
How well organised/structured is your programme?
5/5
Really well structured, multiple rotations in different teams exposing all aspects of the Controls function within the railway.
How much support do you receive from your employer?
5/5
Very supportive, always opportunities for networking and development available
How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?
3/5
Support was good for the most part. Due to some circumstances with the education provider, it did leave some concerns.
How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?
3/5
Could have been delivered better, but content was very good
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
Recommendations & Advice
Would you recommend Network Rail to a friend?
Yes
Why?
It is an excellent opportunity for growth, development and corporate learning. Teaches you great skills, transferring to other areas of life within corporate. Very good environment and positive influences in all teams
What tips or advice would you give to others applying to Network Rail?
Ensure CV is accurate and reflects your true reason for applying for the given scheme
