Network Strategy, Planning and Analysis Graduate Scheme 2026

November 12, 2025

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Our 2-year Network Strategy, Planning and Analysis Graduate Scheme will see you tackling major strategic challenges the rail industry faces. Gain a rounded view of the railway network and understand how the problems we face affect the work we do. With support from experienced mentors, you’ll play an important part in finding solutions that matter.

If solving problems matters to you.

You matter to us.

What you’ll be doing

You’ll ensure our railways are fit for future generations, developing skills in rail strategy, long-term planning, and data analysis, supporting our teams and getting to grips with how their work feeds into timetable improvements, infrastructure projects, and improving train performance, all in order to meet changing passenger and freight needs.

Backed by data, you’ll advise on long-term rail travel trends at national and regional levels to generate future policy and strategy. You will learn how to use data analysis and modelling software to identify the structural and operational requirements of our railway and their surrounding areas. You will also learn how to prepare for large changes, such as HS2 and East-West Rail, spend time with train operators, and have a wide range of opportunities to explore the railway industry on shorter optional placements.

Who you are matters

You’ll need to have at least a 2:2 in any degree subject.

We look for genuine interest, passion for addressing challenges and the ability to creatively solve complex problems. You’ll need to be comfortable working with numbers, presenting your findings and communicating with a wide range of internal and external stakeholders.

What you’ll get out of it

Over the first 18-months, you’ll gain a variety of experience across the company, and we’ll support you to discover the area you wish to specialise in. During the following 6-months, we’ll focus on the specific skills you’ll require to secure your desired permanent role. When it comes to the application process, we’ll give plenty of guidance and support to ensure you make a great impression.

You’ll have the chance to earn a chartership in transport planning and strategic planning. We’ll also give opportunities to earn further valuable professional qualifications as your career develops.

Previous graduates are now working as Strategic Planners, Timetable Planning Specialists, Station Capacity Specialists, Economic Analysts, Project Sponsors and Policy Advisors.

We matter to millions. You could too.

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Common Interview Questions And Answers

1. HOW DO YOU PLAN YOUR DAY?

This is what this question poses: When do you focus and start working seriously? What are the hours you work optimally? Are you a night owl? A morning bird? Remote teams can be made up of people working on different shifts and around the world, so you won't necessarily be stuck in the 9-5 schedule if it's not for you...

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6. HOW DO YOU MANAGE THE CALENDAR AND THE PROGRAM? WHICH APPLICATIONS / SYSTEM DO YOU USE?

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Just like your schedule, how you track files and other information is very important. After all, everything is digital!...

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