Life After GCSEs and Available Apprenticeships for 16-Year-Olds

[ynglwz]

Hey fellow rail enthusiasts,

I hope you're all doing well. As I approach the end of my GCSEs and prepare to step into the next phase of my life, I find myself faced with the exciting but also slightly overwhelming task of figuring out what comes next. I've always had a deep passion for the transport and I'm eager to explore the various apprenticeship opportunities available to 16-year-olds like me. I am located in lincolnshire but i am moving to London once i have completed my Gcse's. I have always found myself with a keen interest in working for TFL.

I wanted to reach out to this knowledgeable community to seek your advice and insights. If you've been through a similar situation or if you have friends or family who've taken the apprenticeship route, I'd greatly appreciate any guidance you can offer. Here are the 2 main questions on my mind:

1. **What Pathways Can I Explore:** I know the rail industry offers a wide range of roles, from engineering to operations and customer service. What are some specific apprenticeship pathways that might align with my interests in railways?

2. **Apprenticeship Programs:** Could you share your experiences with any apprenticeship programs that cater to 16-year-olds? Whether they're specific to the rail industry or offer transferable skills, I'm eager to learn more about them. I am aware that most companies ask for you to be 18+ but is there any for 16 year olds?


I believe that firsthand experiences and insights from those who've walked this path can be incredibly valuable. Whether you're currently working in the rail industry, have knowledge of available apprenticeships, or can simply offer some general advice, I'd be incredibly grateful for your input.

Thank you all for being such an amazing and supportive community. Your guidance means a lot to me as I take my first steps into the rail world after my GCSEs. I can't wait to read your responses and learn from your experiences.

Best regards,
Ynglwz

 

[silexa]

Hi ynglwz,
I havent completed a rail apprenticeship, but I did a Rolls-Royce apprenticeship on leaving school at 16.
I can't speak for rail specific apprenticeships, but when I was in your position I was applying to apprenticeships from October of my final year in school up until January; with most offers being given around February-March. I sadly think you may have left it a bit too last minute to get an apprenticeship for September start, especially for larger companies like TFL etc.
Your best bet may be to start Sixth Form and apply for any apprenticeships that pop up during the year, as some companies do release them randomly.
After completely my time at Rolls-Royce I wanted a change in field and moved to my current to re-train with another apprenticeship, i applied for it in November and started in January.
Keep your eye on Job websites etc, and keep your hopes up!