Insights From classroom to control room: your apprenticeship in rail signalling begins here

I really enjoyed my time as a signalling apprentice. I learned, developed new skills, and took on new challenges and responsibilities as I progressed. I started in the maintenance team as an assistant technician and soon moved to project delivery as an assistant installer.

I'm currently working on the Feltham Resignalling Scheme! By replacing outdated infrastructure with state-of-the-art digital signals and advanced control systems, we're making a huge step towards more reliable, efficient, and environmentally friendly rail travel. It will reduce delays and improve connectivity for communities across southwest London and Berkshire, genuinely redefining the future of sustainable transportation. 

I have focused my efforts on becoming a major works TIC. However, there have been multiple opportunities to specialize my career along different signalling paths, such as principles and systems testing. Although I selected the TIC route and managed the testing activities on projects for this phase of my career, the opportunities to continue growth into other areas within "test" or wider parts of project delivery continue to be a possibility for the future.        

Put yourself out there, be keen and willing to ask questions, listen and learn. The potential opportunities within signalling are vast and diverse. Although often challenging, the role of a tester in signalling is extremely rewarding. The people you work with and the sense of achievement when you complete a project, will turn a job into a career in an industry that you can enjoy being a part of.

I see first-hand how our apprentices thrive. It's an exceptional opportunity that stands out for its unique approach to training. You'll enjoy bespoke, high-investment training delivered in focused one-week blocks and then put your new technical skills into practice on the job.

The apprenticeship offers a chance to work with a wide range of technologies, from legacy (Mechanical, Electro- Mechanical and relay based systems) to cutting-edge IP based, digital and ETRMS systems. Every day brings new challenges and the exhilaration of solving complex problems. Apprentices aren't just learning to deliver projects - they're bringing vital systems to life, experiencing the pride of seeing their work in real-world applications.

What truly enhances this programme is the collaborative learning environment. You'll work alongside some of the industry's finest engineers, continually gaining knowledge from them. It's a place where learning never stops, making every day an opportunity to grow and innovate in the exciting world of rail signalling.

The inclusive and supportive culture within Atkins, operating as AtkinsRéalis, is evident throughout the business. The core values you share strengthen the bond between you, the colleagues you work with daily, and those in different teams. Safety, respect, and wellbeing are vital parts of this. Every staff member is empowered and encouraged to challenge, question, and stand up for what is right, call out unsafe practices, and reward achievements. I believe Atkins, operating as AtkinsRéalis, is an industry leader in building a safer, healthier, and more equal workplace in the rail industry.

We're taking on apprentices — learn more about our Rail Signalling Testing Engineer Apprenticeship Programme and start your application now.