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Railway Engineering - Level 2
IMPORTANT
Applications are now open for academic year 2026/2027, but our full-time courses are still being finalised. If your chosen course changes, we'll contact you to offer a suitable alternative that matches your goals. For more information, call our Enquiries Team on 0808 100 3626.
What is the railway engineering course?
The Railway Engineering Level 2 course is designed to provide the essential skills, knowledge and practical experience needed to kickstart your career in the UK rail industry. Developed in response to the national shortage of skilled rail operatives, this course prepares you for entry-level roles across rail engineering, track maintenance and infrastructure operations.
This course is delivered in industry-standard training facilities, where you will gain hands-on experience while developing an understanding of rail safety, engineering processes and operational requirements. You will also benefit from strong employer partnerships with leading rail companies, helping you progress towards employment opportunities within the sector.
As a Gold Member of the charity, Women in Rail, the college is committed to supporting greater diversity across the rail industry and actively encourages applications from both men and women.
Who should study a railway engineering qualification?
This course is ideal for:
- School leavers interested in railway infrastructure, maintenance and engineering operations and looking to start a career in rail engineering
- Anyone aged 16-18 who enjoy practical, hands-on work and problem-solving.
No previous rail industry experience is required, making this an excellent starting point for those new to railway engineering.
What will you learn on the railway engineering course?
This course combines technical knowledge with practical skills to help learners develop a strong foundation in railway engineering and maintenance.
Mandatory unit
- Preparing to work in the rail industry.
Optional railway engineering units
You will study a selection of specialist rail engineering modules, which may include:
- Carrying out routine adjustments to railway traction and rolling stock
- Conducting routine inspections of the permanent way
- Ensuring rail track is fit for operation following engineering activity
- Preparing resources for track and rail site maintenance activities
- Safe moving and handling of components and equipment for track maintenance.
Optional industry skills units
You will study a selection of rail industry modules, which may include:
- Constructing, maintaining and repairing posts and rail boundaries
- Identifying and removing unwanted vegetation near railway infrastructure
- Loading and unloading physical resources safely
- Maintaining a clean and organised environment
- Maintaining equipment and machinery
- Responding to non-routine signalling situations
- Working with tools, equipment, technical drawings and specifications in the rail industry environment
- Working safely and securely within railway engineering environments.
Industry experience and career development
In addition to classroom and practical learning, you will benefit from:
- Guest speakers from the rail industry
- Visits to rail exhibitions and careers events
- Opportunities to network with rail employers.
Why choose this railway engineering course?
Strong industry links
The college works closely with recognised rail companies including:
- Platinum Rail
- ISS
- Vital Rail
- QTS Group.
These employer relationships help create progression pathways and employment opportunities for students looking to enter the rail industry.
Industry-standard facilities
Train in modern facilities fitted with specialist railway engineering equipment designed to replicate real-world working environments.
Support for Women in Rail
As a Gold Member of the charity, Women in Rail, the college is dedicated to encouraging more women into railway engineering ca
reers and helping create a diverse and inclusive workforce. Find out more about Women in Rail.
How is the railway engineering course delivered?
This course combines:
- Classroom-based learning
- Practical workshop activities
- Industry-related projects
- Educational visits and careers events.
This blended approach helps students develop both the technical and employability skills required by rail employers.
When does the railway engineering course start?
This course starts in September 2026.
- Entry requirements
This course is for students aged 16-18 years only. We have available the Rail Engineering Skills Bootcamp for adults aged 19+, to find out more information please use this link.
- GCSE English and Maths grade 3-9.
If you are not studying a traditional GCSE programme, we accept alternative qualifications like Functional Skills and vocational courses. If you are not planning on sitting GCSE exams, we can also support you with completing an English Language and Maths assessment. Please contact our admissions team for further details:
- Assessment
Students will have workbooks assessed by formative and summative assessments.
- Progression
- NVQ in Track Maintenance Level 2
- Trade specific pathways into rail
- Diploma in Engineering and Technology (Rail) Level 3.
- Careers
- Qualifications gained
- Certificate in Skills for Track and Rail Site Maintenance (RQF)
- OPENAWRD
- Additional costs
Students will need to purchase PPE appropriate to the rail industry including:
- Steel toe cap boots
- Safety glasses
- Visi-vests
- Overalls
- Hard hats.
At West Notts College, our students benefit from excellent facilities and equipment across all campuses. However, some courses require students to purchase specific tools, equipment, or specialist clothing to fully participate in practical learning.
Visit our kit lists page to see what clothing and equipment you’ll need, and start preparing for your studies in September.
Disclaimer
Whilst every effort is made to ensure the information on the website is correct, some details may be subject to change. West Nottinghamshire College reserves the right to make amendments to the courses, dates, fees or other details, and to make cancellations or changes if numbers are insufficient. In the unfortunate situation that we have to cancel a course we will refund your fees in full, but we regret we are not able to offer any refund if you withdraw from your course or fail to start, and you will be liable to pay any outstanding fees that may be due.