Northern has issued a last call for aspiring apprentices to apply for acceptance onto its industry-leading engineering apprenticeship programme.

World Engineering Day is a UNESCO-organised event to celebrate engineering and the contribution of the world’s engineers for a better, sustainable world.

During National Apprenticeship Week from 7th to 13th February, Northern Trains ran a similar call for apprentices when the company encouraged Generation X, those born between 1965 and 1980, to consider applying for its apprenticeship scheme. At that time, roles available included train drivers and conductors; applicants required no previous practical experience, and people of any age were offered a great opportunity to try something completely new.

Over 300 young people are employed by Northern on its apprenticeship programme. The company is the largest provider of apprentice opportunities in the rail industry, employing them in roles such as conductors, drivers, engineering, and business administration.

Northern is now looking to add to that number, with applications being accepted for engineering roles in their depots in Hull, Manchester, Leeds, Newcastle, and Liverpool. Applications are open until Sunday 13th March.

Tricia Williams, chief operating officer at Northern, said: “We’re looking for the next generation of rail staff to join Northern and help us transform the rail network in the north of England.

“The railway has a proud tradition of welcoming and nurturing talent, and several members of our management team, as well as countless other members of staff, started their railway careers as apprentices.

“We want to attract applicants from people who are currently under-represented in our workforce, specifically women and those from ethnic minority groups.

“Our message to prospective employees is that whoever they are and whatever their background, Northern is a great place to work and a great place to forge a career.”

Details of the apprenticeship scheme, together with a step-by-step application guide is available via the Northern website at http://www.northernrailway.co.uk/careers.