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Applications for our early careers schemes are now closed

We’re proud to offer a range of exciting opportunities to join rail – whether you’re just starting out, returning to work, or looking for a change in direction. Take a look at what’s been on offer to get a feel for what might be available next time we open our schemes.

Work Experience

We’re committed to offering meaningful work experience that helps young people understand the railway, build confidence and explore future career paths. To make sure our opportunities are fair, consistent and focused where they can have the greatest impact, we currently offer work experience through two routes:

Partnered schools (Purpose Coalition)

We work with a small number of schools and colleges identified through the Purpose Coalition. These partnerships currently include Brompton Academy and East Kent College, Canterbury. If you’re a student at one of these partner institutions, your careers lead will be able to guide you through the process and discuss available placements.

Employee referrals

If you know someone who works at Southeastern, they may be able to support you through our internal employee referral route. In this case, the colleague you know would need to:

  • submit the request internally using our employee referral process
  • act as your work experience host, or identify an appropriate host within their team

To keep things organised and fair, we open a dedicated referral window each January. During this period, colleagues can submit a simple online form with all the required details, which helps us review and allocate placements consistently. If this route applies to you, the best first step is to speak with the colleague you know and check whether they are able to support you when the window opens.

Graduate schemes

We run graduate programmes designed to develop the next generation of leaders in rail. These typically last two years and combine on-the-job learning with tailored development support.

Previous schemes have included:
  • Train planning and operational analysis
  • Data insight and continuous improvement
  • People management and business support

When applications open, you can expect:

  • Rotational placements with real impact
  • Mentoring and development opportunities
  • A welcoming, purpose-driven environment

Internships and placements

Our internships and placements offer short-term opportunities to learn, grow and explore what a career in rail could look like. We work with universities and partner organisations to offer paid placements that give you real experience in a supportive team.

These are a great fit if you’re:

  • Studying and looking to gain real-world experience
  • Curious about different roles across the industry
  • Eager to apply your learning to real business challenges

Apprenticeships – open are various times throughout the year

Our apprenticeships provide hands-on experience, professional qualifications and a stepping stone into a long-term railway career. Schemes have included roles in engineering, customer service, administration and planning – and they’re open to people of all ages and backgrounds.

When open, you can expect:

  • A paid, structured programme with real responsibilities
  • Support to gain nationally recognised qualifications
  • Opportunities to progress into permanent roles across the railway

See what apprenticeship opportunities are open now

Keep an eye out

Our schemes may be closed for now, but they’ll be back. To be the first to hear when applications open, keep an eye on this page and follow us on social media, like our LinkedIn.

Explore Roles