Severn Valley Railway is on the hunt for trainees
Prospective engineers are being encouraged to hone their craft at the Severn Valley Railway when it officially launches its Heritage Skills Training Academy later this year.
The academy opens its doors in September and rail bosses are holding an open day this month for those interested in joining the trainee scheme.
During the four-year course, apprentices work towards a Level 3 NVQ in Engineering.
For the first two years, students spend three days a week studying at Telford College and another two days paid work at the railway, learning about all aspects of its operation. At the end of the two years, the students gain a recognised Level 2 NVQ in Engineering.
In the third and fourth year, typically one day a week is spent at college, while the other four days are spent in the SVR's workshops. Throughout the course, all college fees and daily transport expenses from key points along the SVR will be covered for trainees. Apprentice James Lewis, aged 18, said: "I have been interested in steam railways for a long, long time. I saw an advert for the apprenticeship on the internet and thought it was perfect. It's fantastic to be working with steam locomotives and the Severn Valley Railway. Work is my hobby."
Fellow trainee Max Green, aged 17, said: "It's great because there's so much variety to the scheme. Every day is different; you're never doing the same job." The academy is one of three key projects funded by the railway's share offer and the fundraising efforts of the SVR Charitable Trust, alongside the restoration of locomotive No. 4930 Hagley Hall. The share offer raised over £2 million in just 12 months. Prospective trainees, aged 16 or over, are being invited to find out more during an open day at the railway on February 22. To register, email Richard.Thurlow@svrlive.com
