SIMS – the experts in railway signalling, installation & maintenance services – has launched its search for two new apprentices.
Despite mass youth unemployment, the industry is failing to attract new recruits and as a result, the pool of licensed signalling staff is limited and falling.
SIMS Managing Director, Tony Steer is looking to reverse this trend:
“With only eight per cent of British employers now offering apprenticeships, we decided to buck this trend and increase the pool of licensed signalling engineers.”
“Carrying out a highly skilled job on railways is very demanding,” said Matthew Hill and Jordan Philip, last year’s apprentices.
“The hours are long and often anti-social and it is very different from a regular office job, being predominately outside in all weather conditions. The job is very technical and there’s no room for error. But it’s a brilliant opportunity to build a steady career in the railway industry.”
The SIMS Apprenticeship Scheme – which takes between two and three years to complete – combines classroom study, practical on-the-job mentoring from senior engineers and a comprehensive education in the various aspects of railway signalling.
At the end of the scheme the apprentices will possess qualifications in installing, testing signalling systems, construction skills, London Underground track competence as well as City & Guilds Level 3 Certificate in Engineering, Installation Commissioning and Maintenance.
They will leave with an IRSE licence, enabling them to work on the railway from the day they qualify.
The scheme’s classroom study includes formal education at Newham College, on a block release arrangement for the first year, and then on day-release. To ensure the right course is chosen to meet the apprentices’ needs, the College carries out a test of academic abilities.
The SIMS Apprenticeship Scheme is very hands on and candidates gain experience of installation and T&C work within the industry, gaining familiarity with new and existing systems and assets, both in equipment rooms and trackside. They also get the opportunity to carry out some work themselves, checked by the on-site supervisor.
Tony Steer commented on the recent SIMS Apprenticeship Scheme Graduates:
“In just over two years we turned out two railway technicians with the skills and foundations to immediately contribute to the industry.
“They have achieved a good entry level in an industry that is moving forward. We have a continued commitment to our apprentices and look forward to recruiting another intake for 2012.
“The scheme has greatly improved company morale and has proven a positive experience for all involved. The whole team were pleased to pass on their knowledge to the next generation of technicians.
“We now have new human resources available to the industry, only two so far but it’s a great start.”
To find out more information about how to apply for the 2012 SIMS Apprenticeship Scheme, potential candidates should contact Kay Richmond at [email protected]
Deadline for applications is 31st March 2012 and applicants should be 18 or over.
