Shaun - Apprentice Highways Technician

My Journey

TfL had always been on my radar as my aunt works on the Underground and my uncle is a train driver! They were always telling me what a good company TfL is and encouraging me to apply. Coincidentally I never really felt that university was the right path for me, so when I finished my A-levels I decided to take their advice and applied for a place on the Apprenticeship Scheme. Like most applicants I never believed I would be accepted but they obviously saw something in me and the rest is history!

My Role

The Apprenticeship Scheme is similar to the TfL Graduate Scheme, although they don't require you to have a degree. You take part in series of placements over the course of two years on completion you decide on the area you wish to specialise in. At the moment I am part of the Health and Safety team. I'm really enjoying this as I have to travel to the various construction sites, which means I am always meeting new people! I like taking an active role and I have been involved in a couple of major construction projects.

My Advice

I am thoroughly enjoying the Apprenticeship Scheme and I would love to stay with TfL for the foreseeable future. Not only is it a prestigious organisation to work for, but the opportunities for young people like me are endless. My advice to perspective applicants would be to go for it, but I would also encourage them to gain some work experience in an office environment to boost their application. Although my role at the moment is fairly active, all jobs have administration elements to them. It would also be beneficial to gain some civil engineering knowledge before starting. This isn't crucial but it would give you a good headstart!