A brand new Internship programme was launched in the summer by The Office of Rail and Road aimed at students moving into their last year of study at degree level. The programme aims to provide purposeful and valuable experience with a focus on creating professional skills and knowledge of the industry.

Four new Interns, Abdulrahman, Maddie, Aiysha and Matias were welcomed to the specialist 8-week programme this summer with a focus relating to their degree subject and professional interests including engineering, diversity and inclusion.

The Internship has seen both the students and The Office of Rail and Road benefit from the successful programme, thanks to the fresh energy and alternative approaches to work and organisation that the interns bring.

The talented and focused interns have progressed their existing skills whilst leaving the organisation inspired by their work and the sheer potential that internships can bring. 

Abdulrahman, civil engineering intern said: ‘I have learnt so much more about the regulatory environment of Britain’s railway, and how ORR ensures Network Rail is running as safely and efficiently as possible. This has been an experience I will never forget, and I am grateful to have had the chance to work here for the summer.’

Maddie, diversity and inclusion intern said: ‘I know that I’ll be a better candidate and a better worker for having spent eight weeks at ORR. I’ve been able to learn about the railways, its history, and its connections to issues of justice and equality.’

Aiysha, Access and licensing intern said: ‘ORR has been a great experience. The teams are lovely and helpful, and I learnt a lot from people across all different departments. I can see myself wanting to come back in the future.’

Matias, strategy and policy intern said: ‘I really enjoyed my 8 weeks at ORR. I have had a fantastic behind-the-scenes look at how the railways operate by being able to join inspectors in some of their site visits whilst supporting the policy team.’