GWR - Apprenticeships

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Apprenticeships are at the heart of GWR

The railway has a long history of working with apprenticeships to help shape its future workforce, but did you know GWR offer a range of apprenticeship opportunities for colleagues of all ages and stages of their career?

Our apprenticeships combine on-the-job learning with study to achieve a recognised qualification and are open to all. We deliver our apprenticeships across 2,000 miles of the network and are pushing the boundaries to ensure our schemes are up to date, challenging and future proof. Our Apprenticeship Schemes have been recognised and awarded by the National Apprentice Service and we have been runners-up several years in a row at the prestigious Personnel Training Awards for Apprentice Employer of the Year.

Apprentices work in key areas of GWR; helping to deliver excellent service to our customers.

Apprentices receive:

Continuous Learning and Development
Vocational training in the areas of the apprenticeship
Dedicated mentors
Bespoke development sessions
Team building events
Intensive on-the-job training
Fantastic Company Benefits including free travel on all GWR services

Customer Service Apprenticeships

Our customers are important to us, and a Customer Service Apprenticeship lets you learn how to create the best experience for everyone. Whether it’s at the station, on board a train or communicating over social media, our customers are at the heart of what we do.

Our Customer Service Apprenticeship scheme puts you right in the core of day-to-day operations across the GWR network, giving you a dynamic and interesting experience of working in the Rail Industry, all while getting to explore the beautiful locations that we serve.

No two days are the same and you will get to meet an incredible and diverse range of people, from customers to colleagues, learning what really keeps our communities thriving.

The programme involves:

18-month programme
On the job training
Duke of Edinburgh’s Gold Award

Engineering Apprenticeships

Working in the heart of the rail industry, an Engineering Apprenticeship can give you valuable, transferable skills for life. From working in depots to building them, Engineers are critical to keeping our trains running; getting our customers home, to work and keeping them connected with those they care most about.

Gaining valuable skills such as mechanical, pneumatic and electrical engineering, including learning about how our network and depots are run. Being an Engineering Apprentice enables you to build on your skills, knowledge and behaviours, that can only be learnt on the job.

You will be supported and guided through your training by some of the best Engineers in the industry, setting you up for the best possible career.

The programme involves:

4-year programme
Nationally recognised qualification
On the job training
Duke of Edinburgh’s Gold Award

Plant Technician Apprentices

As an Engineering Plant Technician Apprentice at GWR you’ll train and learn whilst you earn. Everything from how to inspect, service, repair, fault find and react to faults with depot infrastructure, from lighting / heating systems to 415v shore supply systems and equipment that enables our Engineering depots to operate and in turn supports Engineering in delivering the train service for our customers.

The apprenticeship is designed to maximise your full potential and provide you with the competencies, experiences and qualifications needed to become a skilled Engineer of the future.

The programme involves:

4-year programme
Nationally recognised qualification
On the job training
Duke of Edinburgh’s Gold Award

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We're so proud to have become the first UK train operator to achieve platinum status for our apprentice programme.

Meet our Apprentices

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Harvey - Engineering Apprentice

“My journey has been very rewarding so far and being able to work through these challenging times has kept me sane as well as being able to keep my skills in shape. I've learnt much more than I would if I was not fortunate to be on the apprenticeship scheme. As part of my 4-year journey I also completed the Duke of Edinburgh Business Gold award, which was fun to participate in. I also went to Skern lodge to complete my residential section. This involved activities such as long walks, abseiling, kayaking and Swimming."

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Chloe - Customer Service Apprentice

“What I have enjoyed most about being an apprentice is we can see all aspects of GWR. We rotate around and experience different job roles, such as working alongside revenue inspectors, checking tickets on board trains, as well as working at the stations alongside ambassadors and the gateline teams. This for me is such a great insight into what it is like working at GWR.”

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Joseph - Customer Service Apprentice

“Being able to achieve my apprenticeship and get a job at GWR has been my biggest achievement so far. It’s made a huge difference to me in my life and has enabled me to achieve my dreams. Through the Apprenticeship Scheme I have been able to develop massively and build my confidence. It’s also helped my family and now I can help them economically.”

Our Partners

Learn, grow and build your future with GWR
At Great Western Railway (GWR), we’re proud to partner with Ofsted Outstanding Exeter College to deliver high-quality apprenticeships across our network from Paddington to Penzance.
Together, we combine expert teaching with real-world railway experience, giving you the skills, confidence, and hands-on learning you need to build a rewarding career.
Over the past decade, our partnership has grown to support around 300 apprentices across 16 programmes. You’ll earn while you learn, gain recognised qualifications, and play a part in the future of the railway.
In 2026, GWR was awarded Platinum accreditation by Investors in People for our apprenticeship programmes, recognising our commitment to outstanding training, strong career pathways, and a supportive learning environment.
From day one, you’ll be supported by:

Expert tutors and Skills Officers from Exeter College
Experienced GWR mentors and coaches
Additional learning support where needed
Your development and wellbeing are at the heart of everything we do.

GWR x DofE: Inspiring Young Talent 
For nearly 70 years, The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award (DofE) has helped young people realise their potential by challenging themselves and stepping outside their comfort zones.
At GWR, we’ve partnered with the DofE for over a decade, allowing our apprentices to achieve their Gold Award through the DofE Workplace programme. Along the way, they build confidence, develop life skills, and make a real impact through volunteering and personal challenges.
Over the past 10 years, more than 80 GWR apprentices have achieved their Gold Award, with many recognised at Buckingham Palace, an incredible milestone that reflects their dedication and ambition.
All apprentices aged 16–24 can take part. It’s not about competing, it’s about setting your own goals and achieving something you’re proud of.
To complete your Gold Award, you’ll take part in five sections:

Volunteering
Physical
Skills
Expedition
Residential