How to become a railway signaller
You can get into this job through:
- a college course
- an apprenticeship
- applying directly
College
You could do a college course, which would teach you some of the skills and knowledge you need in this job. Relevant courses include the Level 2 Certificate or Diploma in Rail Services.
You would usually need to be working in the rail industry or be on a relevant placement to be able to complete this course.Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 2 or more GCSEs at grades 9 to 3 (A* to D), or equivalent, for a level 2 course
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Apprenticeship
You can complete a rail infrastructure operator or rail engineering operative intermediate apprenticeship.
You can also do a rail engineering technician advanced apprenticeship.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- some GCSEs, usually including English and maths, or equivalent, for an intermediate apprenticeship
- 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths, for an advanced apprenticeship
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Direct Application
It may be possible to apply directly to Network Rail, who operate the rail system. You'll need a good general standard of education, including English and maths GCSEs.
You'll go through initial checks before being invited to an assessment day and interview.
Non-technical skills are very important in this job, like safety awareness, staying calm under pressure and being able to deal with large amounts of information. These qualities will be tested during the assessment.
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Professional and industry bodies
You can join the Institution of Railway Signal Engineers for professional development.
Further information
You can find out more about becoming a railway signaller from the Institution of Railway Signal Engineers and Network Rail.