We successfully launched delivery of the Level 3 Rail Infrastructure Operator End-Point Assessment and introduced a number of improvements to enhance the assessment experience for employers and apprentices. These included streamlining the Train Driver EPA by removing unnecessary technical tests, enabling assessments to be completed within a single day, alongside the introduction of monthly preparation masterclass webinars, regular train operating company engagement meetings, and an Assessor Commendation scheme to recognise exceptional performance. These developments reinforce CIRO’ s commitment to delivering a high-quality, consistent and employer-focused assessment service.
Rail Academy CIRO’ s Rail Academy continued to strengthen its portfolio of professional short courses, providing flexible, industry-focused learning that supports the development of rail professionals at every stage of their careers.
A key milestone during the reporting period was the successful completion of the first CIRO Connect cohort, marking the delivery of a flagship professional development programme aligned to CIRO’ s Professional Operators Development( POD) Framework.
The programme’ s success was further recognised with the Training Excellence Award at the Spotlight Rail Awards. We also extended the reach of our learning internationally through the delivery of our Operations Planning Masterclass overseas, demonstrating the growing demand for CIRO’ s expertise beyond the UK.
To further improve accessibility and flexibility, we launched the new Rail Master online course, making high-quality operational learning available through a flexible online format. Together, these developments reinforce CIRO’ s commitment to delivering practical, accessible and innovative learning that responds to the evolving needs of both individuals and the wider rail industry.
Strategic initiatives CIRO continued to invest in strategic projects that will strengthen professional development and support the future needs of the rail industry. Working collaboratively with employers and industry partners, we progressed a number of initiatives designed to enhance leadership capability, improve operational performance and develop the next generation of rail professionals.
A key milestone was the successful pilot of the Traincrew Management Development Programme, demonstrating CIRO’ s commitment to developing practical learning solutions that respond to the needs of the rail industry. We also continued preparations for the pilot delivery of the Integrated Railway Operations Leadership Scheme( IROLS), a collaborative industry initiative that will provide a structured approach to developing future operational leaders.
Alongside these programmes, we launched our Delivering Operational Performance learning resources, creating a suite of cross-industry videos that share operational knowledge, promote best practice and support continuous professional development. Together, these projects demonstrate CIRO’ s commitment to developing innovative learning solutions that respond to the changing needs of the railway and deliver lasting value for both individuals and organisations.
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