Learning & Development
Voices from CIRO ’ s Academic Course Launch
At our academic programme launch , we had the pleasure of hearing from several enthusiastic new students . We ’ re always intrigued to hear the diverse aspirations and motivations that brought them to this exciting opportunity . From seeking theoretical knowledge to enhancing career prospects , these students are ready to embark on their educational journeys . Here ’ s what they had to say :
Sarah Prenter Degree , Network Rail “ I ’ m looking forward to the timetable element because it has the biggest impact on what I do now . But I ’ m also excited to gain a more holistic understanding of other areas of the business that I wouldn ’ t usually have time to explore .”
Macdonald Boella Degree , TfL “ I ’ d like to grow — understand more than just my role . The idea of whole system thinking , getting a clearer picture of how everything fits together in the railways , really interests me . It ’ s about gaining a broader understanding of the industry .”
Mark Neville-Cooper Diploma , Network Rail “ I ’ ve got 22 years of rail industry experience , but no formal qualifications for it . Doing this course is really about career progression , through formalising my knowledge .”
Victoria Peacock Certificate , Rail Delivery Group “ I was encouraged by my line manager . I ’ ve been at RDG for five years and needed to expand my operations knowledge . It ’ s a foundation to me doing that — expanding my industry knowledge .”
Ben Woodard Diploma , Greater Anglia “ I ’ m hoping to gain a greater knowledge of the wider railway as a whole . I ’ m looking forward to learning about the operations of other departments . It ’ s also good to network , to be honest . If I ever did move somewhere else , maybe I ’ ll have someone there who can give me a few pointers .”
Aziz Hussain Degree , GTR “ Most of my work is practical , being on the job , and I think we sometimes forget the theory-based knowledge that can really help . The course will cement that understanding and give me more tools for higher management , helping me evidence my approach and apply proven models .”
Liam Tweedy Diploma , West Midlands Trains “ This was recommended by my line manager because I ’ m looking to progress within the railway and advance my career . We discussed what the next level looks like for me , and this course came up as a way to help my prospects when it ’ s time for interviews or applications .”
Chelsea Eddowes Certificate , Network Rail “ If someone ’ s on the fence about taking a course like this , I ’ d definitely say go for it . The amount of support you get is amazing , and there are so many resources available to help you along the way . It ’ s a great step to take if you want to grow and develop in your role .”
The Bulletin | Issue 54 | November 2024 19