Wales Introduces Rail Engineering Apprenticeship

Transport for Wales (TfW) has launched Wales' first railway engineering degree apprenticeship programme. This pioneering initiative represents a significant collaboration between TfW, the University of South Wales, the Welsh Government, and Coleg Y Cymoedd. It offers an exceptional opportunity for aspiring engineers to gain a comprehensive education while acquiring invaluable hands-on experience in the railway sector.

The four-year programme is designed to integrate academic study with practical, work-based learning. Apprentices will pursue a part-time degree at the University of South Wales while simultaneously working at TfW’s facilities. The programme features two vacancies, one at the new South Wales Metro hub in Taff’s Well and another at the Canton depot.

One of the standout benefits of this apprenticeship is the financial support provided by the Welsh Government, which ensures that participants do not have to pay tuition fees. Additionally, apprentices will receive a National Living Wage salary, allowing them to earn while they learn.

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Participants in the programme will work towards a BSc (Hons) degree in Railway Engineering, with a focus on Electromechanical Systems and Electronics. Over the course of four years, they will balance academic studies with practical, on-the-job training, equipping them with both the theoretical knowledge and practical skills needed in the railway engineering field.

Successful completion of the programme will not only result in a degree but also provide apprentices with a wealth of vocational work experience. This combination of academic achievement and practical expertise will significantly enhance their employability and career prospects within the railway industry and beyond.

The railway engineering degree apprenticeship programme is the result of a robust partnership between multiple institutions. TfW, the University of South Wales, the Welsh Government, and Coleg Y Cymoedd have worked together to create a curriculum that meets the needs of the modern railway industry while providing a supportive learning environment for apprentices.

This initiative addresses a critical need for skilled engineers in the railway sector. By offering a structured pathway that combines education with practical experience, TfW is helping to bridge the skills gap and ensure a steady supply of qualified professionals to support the future growth and development of Wales’ railway infrastructure.

For those with a passion for engineering and a desire to contribute to the development of Wales’ transport infrastructure, this apprenticeship represents an outstanding opportunity. It provides a clear pathway to a rewarding career, offering the chance to learn from industry experts, gain a recognised qualification, and earn a competitive salary.

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Aspiring engineers interested in this unique opportunity are encouraged to apply for the vacancies at the South Wales Metro hub in Taff’s Well or the Canton depot. The application process is designed to identify motivated and capable individuals who are eager to make a significant impact in the railway engineering field.