A Pembrokeshire man who failed his first set of A-levels has become a Track Section Supervisor at Network Rail after an apprenticeship scheme transformed his career prospects within six years.
Charles French, from Neylan, now holds a leadership position on the Wales and Borders route despite admitting he knew nothing about the railway industry when he applied for the training programme in 2017. His progression from apprentice to supervisor demonstrates the rapid advancement opportunities available through Network Rail’s scheme.
The current Track Section Supervisor discovered the apprenticeship through a late-night internet search in his college common room after struggling with his studies. French had been juggling sixth form with a part-time job at a trampoline park when his academic performance suffered, forcing him to repeat his first year of A-levels whilst his friends progressed to university.
Network Rail’s three-year maintenance apprenticeship began with six months at a residential training centre in Westwood, Coventry. French worked with track teams, signalling units, welders and technical offices during his training, absorbing knowledge across multiple railway disciplines.
After completing the programme in 2020, he transitioned from maintenance to inspection before becoming a team leader. His recent secondment as Track Section Supervisor represents significant career advancement within a short timeframe.
“You have to back yourself and believe in yourself. I’d had the best training, got the right knowledge, and I knew I could do the job. And I proved it – always making sure the work got done and to the right standards,” French stated.
When asked about requirements for succeeding in the role, French emphasized physical demands alongside learning ability. “You need to be willing to learn, ask questions, be flexible, and be hard-working. The track apprenticeship, in particular, is physically demanding. You have to be willing to work hard and do your fair share of the heavy lifting,” he said.
French highlighted the global recognition of Network Rail qualifications as a key benefit of the apprenticeship pathway. “I feel like it’s a job for life if you want it, but it’s more than that. It’s a launchpad. You can take what you learn and work anywhere in the UK, even abroad. Network Rail skills are recognised the world over,” he stated.
The apprentice-turned-supervisor enjoys working in the Pembrokeshire community where he grew up whilst remaining ambitious about future opportunities. He expressed interest in working overseas at least once whilst acknowledging contentment with remaining at Network Rail long-term.
Nick Millington, Route Director at Network Rail Wales and Borders, stated: “Apprenticeships open doors to long-term careers on the railway – something I’ve experienced myself since starting as an apprentice with British Rail in 1990.”
Millington added: “Charles’ story shows how apprenticeships at Network Rail Wales and Borders can transform lives, whether you’re starting out, changing direction or looking to progress further.”
Network Rail’s apprenticeship programme offers expert training whilst earning a salary, with skills developed for life-long careers. The scheme accepts applications from people of all ages, not exclusively school leavers.
Applications are now open for Network Rail’s 2026 intake, with the announcement coinciding with National Apprenticeship Week running from 9-15 February. The Wales and Borders route continues recruiting for various apprenticeship positions across track maintenance, signalling, and technical roles.
