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To coincide with National Apprenticeship Week 2025 (10–16 February), Britain’s railway network has revealed plans to recruit 2,000 apprentices as part of its 200th anniversary celebrations.

The railways across the UK also have an ambitious target of 10,000 new apprentices over the next five years.

The initiative, open to individuals of all ages and backgrounds, offers apprenticeships spanning one to four years across a diverse range of sectors such as engineering, IT, finance, customer service, human resources and project management.

Opportunities are available with employers nationwide, including Network Rail, Great Western Railway, passenger and freight operators, manufacturers and supply chain partners.

The recruitment push aligns with Railway 200, a year-long programme marking two centuries since the birth of the modern railway in Britain.

The campaign aims to inspire future talent by highlighting the industry’s evolution and its role in building a digitally-advanced, greener transport network.

Apprenticeships blend hands-on training with formal qualifications for both school leavers and adult learners. And the rail sector is actively prioritising inclusivity, encouraging applications from women and ethnic minority communities to better reflect the diversity of the communities it serves.

As part of Railway 200, a special touring exhibition train named ‘Inspiration’ will travel across Britain from summer 2025. Over 12 months, the train will showcase the industry’s innovation and promote lesser-known career paths, from infrastructure design to green technology roles.

Commenting on the recruitment drive for young talent, the Chief Executive Officer of the National Skills Academy for Rail (NSAR), Neil Robertson, said, “These are good apprenticeships, mostly in skills shortage disciplines, that are recognised all around the world. We are looking for committed people from a wide range of backgrounds to fill them.”

Baron Hendy, the Minister of State for Rail, endorsed the industry as a great career path, saying: “From personal experience I know how rewarding a career in the rail industry is. It is brilliant to see so many opportunities available, from roles for those wanting to start their careers to people keen to learn new skills and develop, in a fast-paced and exciting sector.”

“The railways have a long history of innovation and Railway 200 represents the perfect opportunity to look to the future and inspire the next generation. I encourage everyone looking for a new challenge to discover how they can use their unique skills and talents to help build the railways of the future,” added the Minister.

The Chief Executive Officer of Rail Delivery Group, Jacqueline Starr, also commented: “Apprenticeships provide a fantastic opportunity for people to start their careers in a variety of roles in rail. The rail industry plays a vital role in connecting communities and supporting the economy, and we need a diverse range of skills and perspectives to create the workforce of the future.

“As we celebrate the railway’s rich heritage, we’re looking to the future, investing in our people to help us deliver the high-quality, innovative service that passengers expect,” said the CEO.

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