NINE young people have taken their first steps towards a potential career in the rail industry thanks to the Levenmouth Rail Link Skills Academy.
The nine-week programme comes as part of the £116 million project to reconnect Leven to the mainline rail network, with the academy forming part of the ambition to leave a legacy in the area and encourage the next generation of railway workers into the sector.
Following a week of site inductions and getting to know each other, the students – who are aged between 18 and 25 – are all now training for qualifications such as working at height, harness wearing, personal track safety, and equipment use. The final four weeks of training will be on-site and will see them gain work experience with contractors.
The academy has been successful in other areas and has led to students gaining employment within the rail maintenance sector. The programme also includes support from Fife Council in the form of a £55 per week training allowance.
Joe Mulvenna, project manager for Network Rail, said, “It’s great to welcome the students and get them started on the course. I’ve spent some time speaking with them and helping them settle in. They are keen, enthusiastic, and happy to be here. Even this early in the course we are seeing a difference in them and they are looking forward to learning and getting out on site for their work experience.
“Seeing young people get opportunities like this and watching them progress over the nine weeks will be fantastic. Everyone on-site is excited to have them here as they will help shape the next generation of railway workers.”
Councillor Colin Davidson, convener of the Levenmouth area committee, added, “I’m delighted to see the academy get started as the opportunity this represents for the young people is incredible. When they have completed this course, they will have skills, experience, and qualifications that will enable them to pursue jobs on the railway. This programme is just one of the many benefits to the local community from the rail link project and helps to leave a lasting legacy.”
