BMet partners with Network Rail to launch new rail skills hub

BMet College has partnered with Network Rail to launch a new pre-apprenticeship Rail Skills Hub, creating new pathways into rail and engineering careers for young people in the West Midlands.

The first-of-its-kind Network Rail Academy in the region was officially launched on Thursday 5 February at an event held at BMet’s James Watt College.

The initiative is designed to support young people aged 16-19 who are not currently in education, employment or training (NEET), helping to widen participation in the industry while addressing critical skills shortages across the sector.

The Rail Skills Hub will provide students with access to employer-led training, industry insight and technical qualifications designed to prepare them for progression into apprenticeships and long-term careers within the rail sector.

Abdelhamid Sahih, director of engineering at James Watt College, said: “This forward-thinking initiative offers great scope for the development of our students wanting to make their mark within a range of rail and engineering industries.

“Working with an employer like Network Rail creates a fantastic opportunity for BMet and our students, providing clear pathways into industry and supporting young people to progress with confidence into employment and further training.”

The rail academy courses aim to equip students with some of the vital engineering, learning and professional skills needed to stand out when applying for Network Rail apprenticeships.

Through completing a Level 1 or Level 2 qualification in engineering and functional skills at BMet, students will gain pre-requisite qualifications enabling them to later apply for Level 3 apprenticeships with Network Rail. Other options include potential opportunities for further study or skills bootcamps.

Engineering students will also benefit from enrichment and enhancement of the curriculum through industry-led expertise through the innovative partnership.

It will offer students mentoring and work experience with some of Network Rail’s highly skilled and experienced employees.

In addition, students will have opportunities to:

• Visit key rail locations to see first-hand how they operate.
• Engage with leading suppliers who offer incredible career prospects.
• Explore diverse pathways within the rail industry, including roles within network rail.