Fife’s ambitious Levenmouth Rail Link project is forging ahead with establishing its cutting-edge Rail Skills Academy, designed to engage and empower young individuals from the region.

Nestled within the historic Fife Heritage Site, this innovative academy is dedicated to equipping participants with the vital competencies, skills, and hands-on experience required to excel in the dynamic field of railway maintenance.

The intensive program spans nine weeks, immersing aspiring talents in a comprehensive curriculum delivered by the renowned QTS training organisation. The course imparts fundamental skills and certifications essential for securing employment within the thriving rail industry.

An exciting feature of this initiative is that participants can benefit from five weeks of tuition at no cost. The curriculum covers many subjects, including personal track safety, track induction, and one-day certifications in emergency first aid, manual handling, and small plant and tools training. The twelve fortunate candidates will embark on four weeks of invaluable on-site work experience following this comprehensive instruction.

Individuals aged 18 and above can attend an assessment day on Tuesday, August 1. Prospective attendees who register in advance will have the exclusive opportunity to gain insight into the program and engage in informal discussions with the knowledgeable staff who oversee the course.

The larger Levenmouth Rail Link project, generously supported by a £116 million investment from the Scottish Government, aims to restore Leven’s connection to the mainline rail network and establish direct trains to Edinburgh. A vital aspect of the project’s vision is to create a lasting legacy by inspiring the next generation of railway professionals to embark on fulfilling careers in the industry.

Thanks to the unwavering support of Fife Council, each participant will receive a weekly training allowance of £55. This provision ensures that the course remains accessible to all individuals aspiring to launch their careers within Scotland’s flourishing railway sector.

This remarkable initiative empowers the youth of Fife, providing them with an exceptional platform for personal and professional growth. Ultimately, it will contribute to developing a skilled and prosperous workforce, propelling the region’s rail infrastructure into a bright and promising future.

Kris Kinnear. Network Rail’s capital delivery director said: “We are really excited to see this project launched in Levenmouth. Our site team are passionate about this and we are all looking forward to the assessment day on August 1.

“Helping to inspire the next generation, who may never have thought about a railway career, is a positive step.

“The rail industry continues to have a large work bank and our contractors are keen to strengthen their workforce.  Training and employing local people is a great way to leave a legacy.”

Lorna Gibson, Director of QTS Training said: “Network Rail and its supply chain are creating initiatives to encourage young people into our industry. As a lead contractor working in this sector, QTS has been developing a range of programmes; apprenticeships, traineeships and graduate development to assist with this.

“The Levenmouth Skills Academy programme will bring opportunities for young people to be introduced to rail and to gain the qualifications, competencies and initial experience required to take the first step in a career in what is a thriving industry.”

Cllr Colin Davison of Fife Council said “I am delighted to see the launch of the Levenmouth Rail Skills Academy. It’s great to see these opportunities become available to our community.

“There is much that our people can benefit from, and I would encourage anyone over the age of 18 to register their interest in the assessment day. It’s such a fantastic opportunity and I look forward to hearing the success stories.”

You can apply to the Levenmouth Rail Link Skills Academy by contacting [email protected].