Welcome to PlanBEE Rail's dedicated apprentice hub. A place where apprentices and managers can find all the information they need regarding PlanBEE Rail. Below you will find all you need to know about PlanBEE Rail, as well as any relevant resources and documents.
PlanBEE Rail: At a Glance
PlanBEE Rail is a revolutionary apprenticeship programme designed to address skill shortages and provide new career opportunities in the UK rail industry. The scheme involves a multitude of companies within rail and Gateshead College serving as the traning provider for the future generation of rail project managers
During the two-year programme, apprentices will gain hands-on experience across multiple placements while studying for professional qualifications, building expertise in project management, digital tools, and collaborative teamwork. See the full list of companies below.
All the Information you'll need
Why is PlanBee Rail Important for the railway Industry?
This apprenticeship programme aims to close the skills gaps within the rail industry, bringing fresh talent into the workforce.
Partner and Sponsor Organisations
The PlanBee Rail programme is made possible through the collaboration between NSAR, 15 sponsor organisations, and Gateshead College. Each plays a vital role in supporting apprentices and ensuring the programme runs smoothly.
NSAR
NSAR coordinates all aspects of PlanBee Rail, including:
- Business-as-usual operations (BAU)
- Payroll and HR administration
- Technical and platform support
- Communication with managers and sponsors
Sponsor Organisations
Fifteen leading rail organisations fund these apprenticeships, helping deliver high-quality training to develop the next generation of project professionals.
Gateshead College (Training Provider)
Gateshead College leads the academic and technical training for PlanBEE Rail apprentices, delivering learning sessions, practical skills workshops, and assessments.
Working closely with employers and NSAR, they ensure apprentices meet industry standards and successfully achieve their qualifications.
Placement Manager Checklist for New Starters
The Manager Checklist Includes:
What has to be done 3 weeks prior to start date or sooner
1-2 weeks before start date
Logistics at the place of work
Getting your new Apprentice set up
Helping your Apprentice understand their role
Apprentice's first week
For the apprentice who will be leaving you
Find the complete checklist below
Learning Curriculum
Below, you will find all the necessary information regarding the apprenticeship.
Associate Project Manager: Occupation Summary
- The main purpose is to support successful project delivery by planning, resourcing, scheduling, and monitoring project activities.
- Helps ensure project scope, objectives, and benefits are achieved as planned, adjusting plans as circumstances change.
- Plays a key role in enabling organisations to meet business goals through effective project delivery.
- Their daily work could invovleve working with internal and external stakeholders.They will typically report to the project manager, who ensures the delivery of the project scope.
To read the full standard:
The different Lifecycles to be covered.
Project delivery
Project Design
Strategic Development and project selection
Project Close
Click the link below for more details on the gov website
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Key Contacts & Holiday Bookings
Holiday Booking
The guide below explains how apprentices can book their holidays.
Approving Holidays
The following guide will show managers step-by-step how to approve holidays
Key Contacts
For any queries, please speak to your consortium lead. Alternatively, you can contact the appropriate person listed, depending on your query.
APPRENTICESHIP SERVICES Case study: PlanBEE Rail
The benefits of this project a case study
Each Apprentice will have 4 rotational placements across leading rail organisations.
Real-world project experience from day one
A strong focus on digital and interdisciplinary skills
Pathways to long-term careers in rail infrastructure and management
For more information on the apprenticeship, click the link attached.
