GWR Engineering Apprenticeship

Earn. Learn. Build Your Future.

Looking for a career that's hands-on, rewarding, and full of opportunities?

Our Engineering Apprenticeship gives you the chance to earn a salary from day one while gaining nationally recognised qualifications and developing the skills to become one of GWR's engineers of the future.

Working on our fleet of trains, you'll learn how to inspect, maintain, service, and repair our trains, as well as diagnose and respond to faults, helping to keep our customers moving safely and reliably.

What you'll learn

Throughout the apprenticeship, you'll gain practical experience alongside expert engineers while studying towards:

• Level 2 Engineering qualification
• Level 3 Electrical and Mechanical Engineering qualification

You'll receive support from experienced mentors throughout your apprenticeship, ensuring you have the guidance and confidence to develop your skills every step of the way.

Alongside your practical training at one of our engineering depots, you'll attend college to complete your qualifications. During your second year, you'll also have the opportunity to enrol on the Duke of Edinburgh Business Gold Award.

Where could you be based?

We're currently finalising the locations for our 2027 Engineering Apprenticeship. Previous apprentices have been based at:

• Reading
• Bristol
• Exeter
• Plymouth
• Penzance

What we're looking for

To apply, you'll need to:

• Be 16 or over when the apprenticeship starts.
• Live within approximately one hour's travel of your chosen depot.
• Have achieved, or be predicted to achieve, five GCSEs (or equivalent) at Grade 4/C or above, including:
  • Maths
  • English
  • Science
  • Two additional subjects (ICT is desirable)
• Have good numerical, verbal, and written communication skills.
• Be enthusiastic, willing to learn, and enjoy solving practical problems.

Working hours

During the first two years of your apprenticeship, you'll work day shifts between 7:00am and 8:00pm, Monday to Saturday, with one designated rest day each week.

In Years 3 and 4, you'll transition to a 24/7 shift pattern, giving you experience of working in a live engineering environment.

Why choose GWR?

At GWR, you'll be part of a team that's shaping the future of rail. We're committed to helping our apprentices develop successful careers by providing outstanding training, real responsibility, and opportunities to progress.

We're proud to be an inclusive employer where everyone is encouraged to bring their authentic selves to work, feel supported, and reach their full potential.

Register your interest

Interested in joining our 2027 Engineering Apprenticeship?

Register your interest today, and we'll keep you updated with the latest information. As soon as applications open, we'll let you know so you can submit your application.

Start your engineering career with GWR and help keep Britain moving.