Certificate in Skills for Track and Rail Site Maintenance - Level 2
Overview
Are you interested in rail engineering and want to kickstart your career in the rail industry?
This course is a superb opportunity to upskill to be part of a thriving rail community which is currently dealing with a national shortage of trained operatives.
West Notts has strong industry links with recognised rail companies including Platinum Rail, ISS and Vital, offering progression routes that open job opportunities for learners. You will study in our state-of-the-art training facilities with high spec classroom equipment and have the chance to hear from specialist guest speakers. Alongside your studies, you will have the opportunity to attend various trips and visits to exhibitions and jobs fairs.
Start dates and fees
Learners will need to purchase PPE appropriate to the rail industry including:
- Steel toe cap boots
- Safety glasses
- Visi-vests
- Overalls
- Hard hats.
| Start Date | Code | Annual Fee | Actions |
| Jul 2025 | 1394A1733 | FREE | Apply |
E You may be eligible for fee exemption depending on your circumstances. Please see our fees for adult learners page for more information.
What will I study?
Mandatory unit (group A):
- Preparing to work in the rail industry.
You will study a variety of group B optional units from the list below:
- Carry out routine adjustment to railway traction and rolling stock
- Carry out routine inspection of the permanent way
- Ensure that rail track is fit for operation purposes following engineering activity
- Prepare resources for track and rail site maintenance activities
- Safe moving and handling of components and equipment for track maintenance.
You will study a variety of group C optional units from the list below:
- Construct maintain and repair posts and rail boundaries
- Identify and remove unwanted vegetation
- Load and unload physical resources
- Maintain a clean and tidy environment
- Maintain equipment and machines
- Respond to non-routine signalling situations in the industry
- Work with tools, equipment, drawings and specifications in the rail engineering environment
- Working safely and securely in the rail industry.
Entry requirements
This course is for students aged 16-18 years only, we have a Rail Engineering Skills Bootcamp for adults aged 19+, find out more information here.
- GCSE English and Maths grade 3-9.
Study programmes - essential skills for employment
If you're a student between the ages of 16 and 18 (or 19 to 25 with an EHC Plan) we want to make sure you have the best possible chances of landing an awesome job once you finish college.
Students who haven't achieved a grade 4/C in GCSE maths or English to continue studying these subjects while you're here with us. By doing so, you'll be building a strong foundation of skills that will significantly boost your employability in the future.
Think of it as a chance to supercharge your knowledge and abilities. You'll be equipped with the tools necessary to tackle the world beyond college with confidence. Plus, we'll be right here to support you every step of the way.
In addition, to help you gain essential skills for employment, all students aged 19 and under and studying a full-time course with us will take part in our study programmes.
How long is the course?
One year.
How will I be assessed?
Learners will have workbooks assessed by formative and summative assessments.
What does the course lead to?
Careers are often pursued in various rail roles including rail equipment engineer, rail maintenance operative, rail engineering manager, rail engineer and more.
What can I progress onto?
Career opportunities
There isn't currently career information listed for this course.