Let the trains take the strain in engineering apprenticeships

Sydney Granger was eager to start her career when she left college and is currently completing her final year as an apprentice engineer with Govia Thameslink Railway (GTR).

Sydney joined the company through an apprenticeship programme and vacancies for next year’s engineering intake are live now.

She said: “My dad’s an engineer and ever since I was little I’ve been helping him build and fix things.

“Engineering is in our blood, so it was a no-brainer to follow in his footsteps.”

Determined to start earning and learning, Sydney completed her first year of A-levels and then got straight into the world of work, undertaking an apprenticeship in electronic engineering.

She said: “My first apprenticeship was great experience, but unfortunately it was too computer-based for me as I prefer more hands-on work.

“My friend’s dad is a train driver and he recommended looking into GTR’s apprenticeship programmes, which is how I found the engineering apprenticeship.”

After years of hard work, Sydney, 24, is hoping to qualify as a Level 1 service engineer in 2024.

“I’ve loved doing this apprenticeship because it’s been so varied,” she said. “I spent most of my first year at college learning all the relevant theory and I’ve also gained practical experience at various depots across the network.

“ I’m in my final year, I’ve settled into Selhurst depot and I feel a lot more competent and confident compared to when I started my apprenticeship.

“I can’t wait to qualify as an engineer, and I highly recommend this apprenticeship to anyone who is interested in working in rail, because it really helps you progress in the industry.”

To apply to GTR’s 2024 engineering apprenticeship programme, visit https://gtrailwaycareers.com/jobs/apprenticeships by 10 December.

Picture: Sydney Granger Picture: Peter Alvey