Former A-level student now rising through Network Rail after life-changing apprenticeship
A PEMBROKESHIRE man who once failed his A-levels and felt unsure about his future is now building a fast-rising career on the railway after an apprenticeship changed the direction of his life.
As part of National Apprenticeship Week (February 9–15), Network Rail is shining a spotlight on colleagues who have built rewarding careers through apprenticeships on the Wales and Borders route — including Charles French, who is now a Track Section Supervisor.
Back in 2017, Charles was like many sixth form students, uncertain about what came next. He admits he knew little about the rail industry and had never imagined a future working in it.
“I was studying and working part-time at the same time in a trampoline park, and I was probably trying to do too much,” Charles said. “I actually failed my first set of A-levels and had to redo the first year. Because I was a year behind, I watched all my friends go off to university.”
With a lack of direction affecting his confidence and motivation, Charles struggled to see a clear path forward. That all changed during a late-night internet search in his college common room.
“I found a forum where someone mentioned Network Rail’s apprenticeship scheme,” he explained. “I didn’t know much about the railway at all, but I applied anyway and crossed my fingers.”
That leap of faith proved life-changing.
Building confidence
Charles began his apprenticeship with six months at a residential training centre in Westwood, Coventry, before moving through different roles across the railway — working with track teams, signalling units, welders and technical offices.
Each stage helped build his skills and confidence, with Charles gravitating towards roles involving planning, precision and responsibility.
“It wasn’t always easy,” he said. “I knew nothing about the railway, but I think that helped. I came in with an open mind, asked the right questions, and picked things up quickly.”
Progression through opportunity
After completing the three-year apprenticeship programme in 2020, Charles moved from maintenance into inspection roles, before becoming a team leader. He has since stepped into a secondment role as a Track Section Supervisor.
“You have to back yourself and believe in yourself,” he said. “I’d had the training, the knowledge, and I knew I could do the job — and I proved it by making sure the work was always done properly and to the right standards.”
Advice for future apprentices
Charles believes success in the role comes down to attitude.
“You need to be willing to learn, ask questions, be flexible and work hard,” he said. “The track apprenticeship is physically demanding. You have to pull your weight and be prepared to do the hard graft.”
He added: “It feels like a job for life if you want it to be — but it’s also a launchpad. The skills you gain can take you anywhere in the UK, even abroad. Network Rail skills are recognised around the world.”
Eyes on the future
Now back in Pembrokeshire, Charles says he enjoys working in the community he grew up in and making a real difference locally.
“If I stay here forever, I’m happy,” he said. “But I’d love to try working overseas at least once in my life.”
Nick Millington, Route Director at Network Rail Wales and Borders, said:
“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.
“It’s fantastic to see colleagues like Charles following a similar pathway, building successful futures by taking advantage of the many opportunities the railway offers.”
