To mark National Apprenticeship Week 2026 (9–15 February), the Transpennine Route Upgrade (TRU) is shining a spotlight on the apprentices who are playing a key role in modernising rail services across the North.

As the programme moves through a major stage of delivery, TRU is already seeing the impact of its work, with plans for quicker journeys, more regular trains and a more sustainable, dependable railway. Supporting this progress is a growing community of apprentices working in a wide range of disciplines, from technical and analytical roles to project and planning functions.

By bringing new ideas and challenging established ways of working, apprentices are contributing to the success of the programme today while developing the expertise needed to support the railway in the future.

Since launching, the Transpennine Route Upgrade has created 455 apprenticeship opportunities through investments in skills, careers, and talent, and remains on course to reach 590 by the end of the programme.

More than half of these are first-time and entry-level roles, helping people start their careers locally and ensuring the workforce reflects the diverse communities along the route.

“It’s a big misconception that you have to be 16 or 18 to do this. I came out of the apprenticeship in a unique way. I have a History degree and was 23 when I started my apprenticeship, so anyone can do one.

“You see people who are 30 with kids, you see people who have just left school, there’s a really mixed bag of skills and experiences that people can bring to TRU.”

Alice Smith, TRU Associate Sponsor – former Corporate Responsibility and Sustainability Apprentice.

“Taking up an apprenticeship helped me expand my knowledge and understanding of social value and sustainability in more depth.

“It has helped me massively in my role and given me more confidence to influence things that I think can improve our approach in this area, which is really fulfilling.

“One example of this is my role in TRU’s community farm project at a school in Ravensthorpe which will enhance hands-on learning and build skills for students.”

Mohammed Patel, Planning Apprentice.