This Level 2 Rail Engineering Operative programme is built to equip learners with essential KSBs (knowledge, skills and behaviours) for supporting technicians and engineers working on the rail network and trains, safely and to the required standard.

During this course apprentices will learn, through a mixture of classroom and practical experience:

Work safely on or around the railway, following safe working practices, regulations and company procedures.
Assist with the construction, installation, renewal, enhancement and modification of rail infrastructure and rolling stock.
Help to find and diagnose faults, and maintain and replace components under the direction of technicians and engineers.
Support functional and operational testing and inspection using specialist equipment, and report problems clearly.

The Level 2 Rail Engineering Operative Apprenticeship

The Level 2 Rail Engineering Operative Apprenticeship gives learners a strong foundation for a career in the rail industry. Throughout the programme, apprentices learn how to work safely in a safety-critical environment, prepare work locations, support technical work and use tools, equipment and materials correctly. Combining practical workplace application with industry best practice, learners build their understanding of general engineering techniques, teamwork and the commercial side of rail operation. By the end of the apprenticeship, they are a reliable, safety-aware member of the team, ready to support the technicians and engineers who keep the railway running.

Who is the programme for?

This apprenticeship is ideal for people starting out in rail, as well as existing employees who want formal recognition for the hands-on work they already do. It is well suited to aspiring or existing rail operatives and track, signalling, electrification or rolling stock support staff who work alongside technicians and engineers. Whether you're beginning a career on the railway or building on the experience you already have, this programme provides the knowledge, practical skills and safe working habits needed to be a valued part of any rail engineering team.

About the Course

Duration: 15 months (not including EPA)

Delivery Method: Online + Face-To-Face

Funding: Levy Funded (£12,000)

Minimum Off The Job Hours: 300

Apprenticeship course type: Rail, Engineering & Manufacturing

Mandatory Requirements

There are no mandatory requirements for this course

Assessment Methods

This apprenticeship has 2 assessment methods, which are:

An Interview and at least 1 of the following:

Portfolio
Question and Answer
Simulation
Observation

How your business Benefits

Safety Built In

Safe working is at the heart of the standard, so apprentices learn the practices and regulations that protect your people, your assets and your passengers.

Support for Your Engineers

Operatives take on assisting tasks under the direction of technicians and engineers, freeing skilled staff to focus on complex work.

Grow Your Own Talent

Bring new people into the industry and develop them in your own way of working, building a pipeline of future rail technicians.

Dependable Teams on Track

Training covers teamwork, communication and a professional approach, so apprentices become reliable colleagues who report issues early.

Level 3 Rail Engineering Technician

The Level 3 Rail Engineering Technician Apprenticeship develops the technical skills needed to keep the railway safe and reliable. Throughout the programme, apprentices learn how to plan and deliver technical work, solve problems, manage resources and communicate effectively, while building a solid understanding of engineering principles and safe working practices.

Combining practical workplace application with industry best practice, learners specialise in a rail discipline and gain the knowledge to work across the network and on trains.

Level 2 Engineering Operative

The Level 2 Engineering Operative Apprenticeship gives learners a strong, transferable foundation in engineering and manufacturing. Throughout the programme, apprentices learn how to work safely, interpret job documentation, use tools and equipment correctly and keep their work area organised and efficient, before specialising in one of six job roles.

Combining practical workplace application with industry best practice, learners develop the quality focus, communication and problem solving skills that employers value, with a skill set that can move across engineering and manufacturing sectors.

Level 2 Metal Recycling General Operative

The Level 2 Metal Recycling General Operative Apprenticeship develops the skills needed to work confidently in a metal recycling yard. Apprentices learn to identify and grade materials, handle hazardous and non-hazardous waste correctly, work safely with plant and machinery and keep accurate records, while understanding how everyday decisions affect the commercial success of the business.

Combining practical workplace application with industry best practice, learners also build communication, problem solving and teamwork skills, and choose one specialist option.