We believe that investing in our people is one of the most effective ways of improving the safety, reliability and efficiency of the railway. We also know that it’s vital to get each individual’s training programme just right.
This is why we’ve set up our own state-of-the art training and development centres, with almost all of our training and development delivered by our own people.
Railway maintenance training
Our maintenance workers inspect the condition of track, fences, structures, electrification plant and signal equipment on the railway, then make any necessary repairs. We run eleven maintenance training centres across the UK, with 110 trainers who are all former maintenance workers themselves. All those attending learn how to work safely, then take specialist training courses for their specific roles.
Training signallers
Before starting work, each one of our signallers completes a nine-week training course. It’s mostly classroom-based but with some real signal box experience. We have two training centres in Watford and Leeds, where they can get the most up-to-date training, including computer-based materials and signal panel simulators.
Professional development
We offer a range of programmes that meet national standards and are accredited by a university, college or professional body. We provide job-related training at all levels, including:
- Masters degrees
- Bachelor degrees
- Professional Diplomas
- Higher National Diplomas (HND)
- Higher National Certificates (HNC)
- National Vocational Qualifications (NVQ).
Leadership development
Our leadership programmes develop people for management positions at all levels across the business. We have invested significantly in our leadership development centre, Westwood, and our partnership with the University of Warwick.
We develop and deliver programmes for thousands of our managers every year to equip them with the skills, capabilities and strategic knowledge they need to help achieve our ambitious goals and targets. This has strengthened our capability to set performance targets, review progress, and to coach, motivate and support our people.