Govia Thameslink Railway (GTR) is recruiting its 2025 intake of apprentice engineers.

Just as it did at this time last year, the operator is encouraging people interested in a railway career to consider joining the four-year programme.

The apprenticeship includes both practical and theory learning, and successful participants will be awarded a UK-recognised trade qualification.

Apprentices will learn how to maintain the operator’s large fleet of trains and will take on increasing responsibility as the apprenticeship progresses.

The apprenticeship is open to people aged 16 and above who have Level 4 or above in GCSE English, Maths and Science. Last year’s intake saw a marked increase in female apprentices.

To encourage applicants, GTR offers two case studies of second-year apprentices aiming to qualify as Level 1 service engineers in 2026.

Katie Short, 22, tried various jobs before joining GTR in 2023. Katie says that she has always enjoyed practical, hands-on work, and wanted to apply this in industry where she could create a longstanding career.

Elias Pablo, 20, was rejected when he first applied to be an apprentice. He then enrolled on a two-year electrical engineering programme in London, and when he applied again to be an apprentice, was successful.

Apprentices’ wage begins at £15,750, and increases as the course progresses to £22,000 in the fourth year. Once qualified as a Level 1 engineer, graduates can expect to earn around £37,107.

For information and to apply, click here.

“Engineering has always played a crucial role in the railway by keeping trains moving for thousands of customers. Now, we’re looking to recruit the next generation of engineers who are ready to take their first steps on the career ladder. This is a fantastic opportunity to earn a real salary, whilst learning the trade.

“GTR offers brilliant development opportunities, with many of our apprentices going on to gain permanent employment, and with free travel across the network, GTR provides tangible benefits to those training with us.”

Cameron Wytiahlowsky, Engineering Apprentice Trainer Assessor at GTR