How a GWR Apprenticeship Builds Real-World Skills: Eve's Experience

Meet Eve 

Eve is a Great Western Railway apprentice who has completed rotations through Gateline, Ticket Office, Revenue, and Learning & Development teams. She completed the Gold Duke of Edinburgh's Award practice expedition, visited Exeter College's Future Skills Centre for an aircraft experience day, and has strengthened her communication, time management, and customer support abilities through the programme.

What have you enjoyed most about your apprenticeship at GWR?
One of the most memorable experiences during my apprenticeship was visiting the Exeter College Future Skills Centre for an Aircraft Day. We had the opportunity to explore how aircraft engineers are trained and take part in hands-on activities, including testing an evacuation slide and roleplaying as cabin crew. One of the highlights was sitting in the cockpit and learning how the controls and mechanisms work from a pilot’s perspective.

What has been the highlight of your apprenticeship so far?
The highlight of my apprenticeship has been completing our Gold Duke of Edinburgh’s Award practice expedition. Although it took place during a heatwave and was certainly challenging, it pushed us out of our comfort zones and helped us develop valuable skills such as map reading, route planning, perseverance and time management.

What makes being an apprentice at GWR unique?
The opportunity to rotate through different roles across the business makes the apprenticeship at GWR truly unique. Each rotation provides hands-on experience with the support of experienced colleagues, helping you discover the areas that interest you most while building a strong network across the company.

What have you learned during your apprenticeship that has surprised you the most?
I’ve been surprised by the amount of knowledge and training that goes into every role. Learning about ticketing systems and the different ticket options available has completely changed my understanding of how the railway operates and shown me just how much expertise is involved.

How has your apprenticeship helped you develop both personally and professionally?
The apprenticeship has strengthened my communication skills, both at work and in my personal life. It has helped me communicate more confidently with customers, colleagues and even friends and family, and I know these skills will continue to benefit me throughout my career.

What new skills have you gained since joining GWR?
Since joining GWR, I’ve developed a range of valuable skills, including:

• Time management
• Effective communication
• Supporting vulnerable customers
• Perseverance and resilience

Alongside practical experience, the development courses included in the apprenticeship have helped me build and strengthen these skills even further.

 
How has working across different teams helped you understand the railway industry?
Working across different teams has shown me how closely every department is connected and how each role contributes to keeping the railway running safely and efficiently. It has given me a real appreciation of the importance of teamwork, professionalism and following procedures.

What opportunities have you had to experience different roles within GWR?
During my apprenticeship, I’ve had the opportunity to work across the Gateline, Ticket Office and Revenue teams, as well as spending time with the Learning and Development team. Each rotation has given me a different perspective on the railway and helped me develop new skills.

How has your apprenticeship given you insight into the variety of careers available at GWR?
Throughout the programme, we’ve met colleagues from a wide range of departments who have shared their career journeys and experiences. We’ve also learned about the many roles within Control and how each one contributes to the safe and efficient operation of the railway, giving me a real understanding of the variety of careers available at GWR.

What has it been like working with colleagues across GWR?
Working with colleagues across GWR has been a fantastic experience. Everyone has been incredibly friendly, supportive and genuinely interested in helping apprentices succeed. You meet new people all the time, and there’s a real sense of community that makes the railway feel like one big family.

How have your managers and colleagues supported you throughout your apprenticeship?
Support has been available every step of the way. During each rotation, there’s always someone on hand to answer questions, offer guidance and help you develop your confidence. Regular check-ins with the apprenticeship team also ensure you always feel supported throughout your journey.

What do you enjoy most about the people and culture at GWR?
The people are what make GWR such a great place to work. Everyone is welcoming, approachable and happy to share their knowledge and experiences. It’s a positive, supportive environment where you quickly feel part of the team and are encouraged to learn, grow and succeed.