The South West Trains – Network Rail Alliance launched today the search for five new young talents to join its unique apprentice scheme, as part of the sixth annual National Apprenticeship Week.

The South West Trains – Network Rail Alliance apprentices are given unique training combining operational and infrastructure knowledge, ground breaking in the industry. As a result of the integrated environment provided by the Alliance, apprentices are given unprecedented access to all aspects involved in running the railway.  This means they can gain experience in customer service, train and infrastructure maintenance, engineering and operations.

Two of the apprentices signed up through the South West Trains-Network Rail Alliance Apprenticeship Scheme have now successfully completed a key milestone in their training across the South West Trains network. The newly qualified technicians are now in permanent employment at the Wimbledon train care depot having successfully completed their training. 

The ongoing apprentice scheme specialises in rolling stock maintenance but trainees gain an understanding of the infrastructure through a placement at alliance partner Network Rail’s school of learning based on HMS Sultan. They work under supervision in teams gaining vital experience over the four years as they train to become the technicians and engineers of tomorrow.

During their four year training course, they are placed at different maintenance locations including Wimbledon, Salisbury, Bournemouth and the Isle of Wight gaining bespoke knowledge, experience and exposure to our fleets of diesel and electric trains.

Spencer Hufton, Apprentice Manager for the South West Trains – Network Rail Alliance, said: “We offer a unique opportunity for young people to gain both training and experience in the railway industry.

“Being an Alliance allows us to offer comprehensive training covering all aspects of our industry from operational and customer facing roles to track maintenance or rolling stock engineering. 

“We do believe in young talent and invest in them to deliver the railway of the future. Many of our own directors came through this route, including our Managing Director, which strongly demonstrates it can work.”

There are currently 14 apprentices working through the scheme, with a further five selected to start in September 2013.