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This qualification will give the individual the skills and knowledge required to start a career in railway sector. It is suitable for individuals who are new to the railway sector or are currently working in the railway sector and would like to attain a formal qualification.

Level 2 Certificate and Diploma in Rail Engineering
Course Information Sheet
This qualification will give individuals the skills and knowledge required to start a career in the railway sector. It is suitable for individuals who are new to the railway sector or are currently working in the railway sector and would like to attain a formal qualification.
The qualification is achieved by completing a set of mandatory and optional units including the following:
- Working in the rail engineering industry
- Rail engineering principles
- Rail engineering practices
- Working Effectively as a Rail Track Engineering Operative
- Complying with Safety Requirements and Statutory Regulations
- Using and Interpreting Engineering and Documentation Data
- Restore Rail Switches and Crossing to Operational Condition
- Restore Plain Line Track Geometry to Operational Condition
- Undertake Replacement of Permanent Way Assets and Components
Job Interviews and Job Opportunities Attached to This Course!
Level 2 Certificate and Diploma in Rail Engineering
Entry criteria
Good written and spoken English skills are required. The minimum English Language skills equivalent required are:
- B1 level qualification (Home Office’s list of recognised English tests)
- Functional Skills Level E3-L1 in English
You will complete a Literacy, Numeracy and ICT initial assessment as part of the enrolment and registration process to assess your suitability for the programme. We will support you with any English, maths and ICT needs throughout the programme.
Course duration and start dates
Course duration: 14 weeks
Course start dates: start dates are available throughout the year, courses start every six weeks from September to July each year.
Attendance details
4 days a week – classroom and online with independent study days
Assessment/exam arrangements
Portfolio of Evidence, Multiple Choice Exam (online/paper-based) and Practical Assessment.
Resources or equipment required for your course
Notebook, ruler, pen, pencil and a device (laptop) for online learning.
*If you do not have access to a PC or laptop, access to PC or laptop is available at the centre.
Please Note: PPE will be required for all practical and railway site training: Orange Hi-Vis Vest/Jacket and Trousers, Helmet, and Steel Toe Cap Boots.
Level 2 Certificate and Diploma in Rail Engineering
Certification and accreditation details
- ETCAL Level 2 Certificate in Rail Engineering (Knowledge)
- ETCAL Level 2 Diploma in Rail Engineering (Competence)
- NOCN Level 1 Award in Health and Safety in a Construction Environment (CSCS)
This qualification will support learners to progress into or within employment in the construction and built environment sectors. Progression to further learning may include:
- Entry to the Railway Industry Gateway to Work Programme (LSDN) which includes: Medical, Drugs and Alcohol Test, Personal Track Safety (PTS), Industry Common Induction (ICI) with a guaranteed interview (terms and conditions apply).
Progression options
On completion of this programme, learners may wish to progress to further learning and industry licences:
- Entry to the Railway Industry Gateway to Work Programme (LSDN) which includes: Medical, Drugs and Alcohol Test, Personal Track Safety (PTS), Industry Common Induction (ICI) with a guaranteed interview (terms and conditions apply).
- Level 3 Diploma in Railway Engineering Track Maintenance.
- Level 3 Certificates/Diplomas in Health and Safety, Site Management and/or Supervisory Management
- Advanced Rail Engineering Apprenticeships
- Foundation Degree/Bachelor’s Degree/Master’s Degree in Railway Engineering or a related subject.
Career opportunities
Track maintenance operative, Skilled track operative, Signalling Technician, Protection Master, Traction and Rolling Stock Technician, Skilled and Leading Track Operative, Track Maintenance Supervisor.
Our mission is to provide high-quality education courses for learners wishing to improve their job prospects or change their careers. To enrol on one of our courses or register to attend one of our Open Days, please contact us here.