Rail (PTS) SWAP Programme

This programme is delivered under the Sector-based Work Academy Programme (SWAP).

This programme has 3 main components:

• Pre-employment training
• o   Technical skills
• o   Employment skills
• Employer insight experience
• A guaranteed job interview

Modules covered as part of pre-employment and technical skills training aspect include:

• Rail Track Safety
• Drug and Alcohol Awareness
• Small Tools

*Candidates must fully complete each element of the programme to qualify for a guaranteed interview.

Certification and Accreditation details:

NCFE Level 2 Health, Safety & Security at Work (unit)

Career Opportunities  

Track maintenance operative, Skilled track operative, Signalling Technician, Protection Master, Traction and Rolling Stock Technician, Skilled and Leading Track Operative, Track Maintenance Supervisor.

Entry criteria  

Good written and spoken English skills are required. The minimum English Language skills equivalent required are:

• B1 level qualification (Home Office’s list of recognised English tests)
• Functional Skills Level E3-L1 in English and maths

Students will complete an English, Maths and Digital Skills initial assessment as part of the enrolment and registration process to assess suitability for the programme.

We will support students with any English, maths and Digital Skills needs as part of their programme. Available courses include Bridging the Gap programme and Functional Skills for those who would benefit from English, maths, or Digital Skills training.

Programme duration: 6 Weeks

Programme start dates: 16th September 2024

Enrolments dates: 5th and 6th September and 12th and 13th September 2024 – you will need to commit to either of the 2 days and the 6-week programme.

Delivery locations: (TBC when enrolled)        

2nd Floor, Suffolk House, George Street, Croydon, CR0 0YN

Unit 3 Norfolk House, Wellesley Road, Croydon, CR0 1LH

Attendance arrangements:

• Weeks 1-3: Classroom and online learning
• Weeks 3-6: Employer insight experience and job interviews

Homework and self-study:

Students will need to commit 8-10 hours a week for homework (assignments) and for self-study (reading, research, and e-learning).

Attendance special requirements:

In addition to classroom study, you will be offered work experience on a voluntary basis, these opportunities will be offered by industry employers linked to the SWAP programme.

Assessment/exam arrangements:      

The method of assessment for the qualification is through a portfolio of evidence.

Resources or equipment required for your course:   

Notebook, ruler, pen, pencil, and a device (laptop) for online learning.

*If you do not have access to a PC or laptop, access to PC or laptop is available at the centre.

Industry Skills:

In addition to the formal qualifications offered on this programme, a range of industry skills and qualifications required or desired by employers are offered to students to enhance their employment success and career prospects.

These include:

• Drug and Alcohol Awareness
• Small Tools
• Construction Gateway: Rail Track Safety (leading to PTS certification)

Personal and Professional Development:      

Students on this programme will benefit from dedicated Personal and Professional Development. These are skills that will enhance student’s learning both personally and professionally.