At a Glance
- Tasks: Explore the railway industry with hands-on activities and team projects.
- Company: Join Govia Thameslink Railway, the UK's largest train operator.
- Benefits: Gain practical experience, mentoring, and insights into various railway careers.
- Other info: One-week programme from 6th to 10th July 2026, applications open until 23rd February 2026.
- Why this job: Discover how Britain's busiest railway operates and make valuable connections.
- Qualifications: Enthusiasm and curiosity are key; no prior experience needed.
The predicted salary is between 500 - 1500 £ per month.
Location: Base Location - Go Ahead House, East Croydon but will include travel to various locations across our network.
Date: 6th July 2026 - 10th July 2026
Eligibility: Students in Years 12 & 13
Are you ready to discover what it takes to keep Britain's busiest railway running? Join Govia Thameslink Railway (GTR) for an exciting one-week work experience programme, designed to give students in Years 12-13 a behind-the-scenes look at the railway industry. As the UK's largest train operator — running Thameslink, Great Northern, Southern, and Gatwick Express services — we're passionate about connecting people and communities. Our values of being Fair, Accountable, Collaborative, Transparent, Open-minded, Valued, and Respectful guide everything we do.
What's Involved
- Visit our Stations to see how our front-line teams deliver excellent customer service.
- Tour our Engineering Depots to learn how our trains are maintained and kept safe for daily service.
- Experience our Rail Operating Centre (ROC) — the heart of railway operations, where we manage and monitor services in real time.
- Meet and learn from a range of GTR colleagues who help keep the railway moving.
- Take part in interactive activities and projects that develop teamwork, communication, and problem-solving skills.
What You'll Gain
- First-hand insight into careers across the rail industry.
- The chance to explore different roles in a dynamic, fast-paced environment.
- Practical experience to strengthen your CV or personal statement.
- Mentoring and advice from experienced railway professionals.
Who We're Looking For
- We welcome enthusiastic, motivated, and open-minded students who are curious about how the railway operates.
- Enjoy working with others and learning new skills.
- Are respectful, responsible, and eager to make the most of the experience.
- No prior experience is required — just bring your curiosity and enthusiasm.
To apply, simply click the "Apply" button below, submit your CV and detailed answers to the application questions. Applications are open until Monday 23rd February 2026.
Yrs 12-13 Work Experience Programme - 2026 employer: GTR
Govia Thameslink Railway (GTR) is an exceptional employer, offering students in Years 12-13 a unique opportunity to gain invaluable insights into the railway industry through our engaging work experience programme at Go-Ahead House in East Croydon. With a strong commitment to fostering a collaborative and respectful work culture, we provide hands-on experiences, mentorship from seasoned professionals, and the chance to develop essential skills in a dynamic environment, all while being part of the UK's largest train operator dedicated to connecting communities.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Yrs 12-13 Work Experience Programme - 2026
✨Join Local Logistics Communities
Get involved in local logistics and transportation meetups or community groups. These are perfect for networking and staying updated on placements. Plus, you never know when someone might drop a nugget about an opening at GTR!
✨Connect with Industry Professionals
Find mentors or industry professionals on platforms like LinkedIn. Reach out to them and express your interest in a placement. They might have insider info on roles coming up at GTR or know someone who does!
✨Engage with University Career Services
Don’t forget to tap into your university's career services! They often have exclusive connections with companies in transportation and logistics, including GTR, and can offer advice on landing a placement.
✨Showcase Your Passion for the Industry
Create a blog or share posts about trends in transportation and logistics. This will not only demonstrate your interest but also get you noticed by potential employers like GTR. Plus, it builds a personal brand that sets you apart!
We think you need these skills to ace Yrs 12-13 Work Experience Programme - 2026
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Understanding of the Logistics World:Make sure your CV reflects your knowledge of supply chain management and transportation processes. Highlight any relevant coursework or projects you've done in uni that relate to logistics, and don't forget to mention any software tools you're familiar with—these are super valuable in the transportation industry!
Craft Your Cover Letter with Enthusiasm:Since this is a placement, it’s important to show your eagerness to learn and grow in the transportation-logistics field. Explain why you're passionate about it and what specific skills you want to develop during your time at GTR. Make it personal, and let your personality shine!
Include Relevant Certifications:If you've got any certifications related to transportation or logistics—like a forklift license or a course in supply chain management—definitely include those. They can give you an edge over other candidates since they show you're proactive about your professional development!
Keep It Clear and Concise:Remember, while we want to see your personality, clarity is key. Ensure your CV and cover letter are easy to read and free of jargon. Use bullet points to highlight your skills and achievements, making it a breeze for the hiring team at GTR to see what you bring to the table.
How to prepare for a job interview at GTR
✨Know Your Logistics Lingo
Brush up on the key terminology used in the transportation and logistics sector. Understanding terms like 'supply chain', 'freight forwarding', and 'just-in-time logistics' can help you sound insightful in the interview and demonstrate your interest in the field. We want to impress GTR with our industry knowledge!
✨Be Ready for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that test your problem-solving skills in real-world logistics scenarios. You might be asked how you would handle delays in delivery or optimise a route. Think of examples where you've handled similar challenges, even if they're from academic projects. Showing your critical thinking will shine a light on your potential for this placement!
✨Highlight Your Analytical Skills
Since this is a placement, they’ll be looking for your potential to learn and grow. Emphasise any experience or projects that required data analysis or resource management. If you've used tools like Excel or specific logistics software, bring that up! We need to showcase our ability to adapt and learn important skills on the job.
✨Show Your Enthusiasm for the Industry
Make it clear that you're passionate about transportation and logistics. Share any experiences that led you to this field, whether it’s an internship, a relevant class, or just your fascination with how goods move around the globe. We want to convey that we’re not just looking for any placement; this one at GTR excites us!
