Over half of adults would choose an apprenticeship if starting their career again, reveals new research from Network Rail

New research from Network Rail* to mark National Apprenticeship Week has revealed over half of all respondents (51%) would consider an apprenticeship if they were to restart their career.

The findings highlight the appeal of apprenticeships as a valuable pathway into the workforce, with over three quarters of all adults (86%) believing that apprenticeships are a great way to kick-start a career.

Jordanna Mills, 23, from Ashford in Kent, began her career as an

apprentice in 2019 and over the course of three years, successfully completed the scheme, securing a full-time permanent role within Network Rail as a principal technical officer who works as part of the maintenance team.

Jordanna said: “During my time in sixth form, I was quite uncertain about which engineering route I wanted to go down. I wasn’t sure whether university and classroom based learning suited my desire for practical and real world experience. After researching several different paths, I discovered the Level 3 apprenticeship scheme, and haven’t looked back since.

“I’d encourage anyone thinking of applying to take time and research as I believe there’s really good value in apprenticeship schemes across the rail sector. I also like the idea that my essential skills will contribute to the future of railway infrastructure in the UK.”

Richard Turner, Network Rail’s head of apprenticeships, said: “We’re really committed to investing in the future talent that we need to build, maintain, and run Britain’s railway, and apprentices are a vital part of that.

“We want to attract more apprentices to the railway and are looking forward to working with Skills England to offer shorter, more flexible railway apprenticeships, helping us maximise our Skills & Growth Levy which aims to strengthen the connection between the education and rail sectors.

“Our schemes have no upper age limits and are suitable for anyone and everyone wanting to build a career in the railway. You don’t need to follow a traditional university path to make a real impact in an industry that keeps millions moving every day - all that we ask is that our applicants have a passion for making a difference.”

 When looking at 18 to 21-year-olds in particular, over two thirds (68%) use the railway regularly, but only 59% had considered a career in the railway – with 25% assuming there wouldn’t be a role to match their skills.

Despite these misconceptions, the railway industry plays a vital role in contributing to the job market and skills development. The sector directly employs over 100,000 across varying roles and generated £26 billion in economic, environmental, and social benefits to the country over the past year. **

Through its diverse range of apprenticeship schemes, Network Rail provides hands-on experience and career development – from engineering and business to IT and finance. These opportunities allow individuals to earn while they learn, gaining skills that contribute to the essential running of the railway, connecting people and passengers across Britain.

Fardosa Said, 24, from west London, kick-started her project management apprenticeship scheme in 2023.

Network Rail is recognised as one of the top 100 apprenticeship employers in the UK and over the last five years has recruited 1,435 new apprentices. *** To take the first step towards an exciting career in rail, visit: networkrail.co.uk/apprenticeships for more information on how to apply.