Throughout the five-day programme, students engaged directly with managers, drivers, train dispatch teams, and customer service specialists across the Plymouth network:

• Monday (Station Operations & Inclusion): Station safety briefings, meeting key operational managers, and shadowing passenger assistance teams supporting passengers with mobility needs.

• Tuesday (Station Management & Dispatch): Shadowing ticket office operations, gateline management, and train dispatch—including delivering live announcements over the station PA system.

• Wednesday (Operations & Guard Duties): Joining a Train Manager on the round-trip service to Taunton to learn about train safety, delay management, and ticket inspections.

• Thursday (On-Board Services & Pathways): Shadowing Lead Customer Hosts on an InterCity Express Train (IET) to Penzance, followed by a dedicated career session with GWR’s Apprentice Team.

• Friday (Behind the Scenes): Visiting a working signal box, taking a trip on the Gunnislake line, testing their skills in the driver simulator, and presenting their key takeaways from the week.

The experience proved truly transformative for Carter, who discovered a clear vision for his future career:

"I learnt how connected all the customer service roles are on the railway. I was most proud of doing all the train manager announcements on the train from Penzance to Plymouth, saying all the station names and connecting platforms. I think I will apply for a customer service apprenticeship at GWR, as I really enjoyed the roles and they said I had the perfect personality for it!" — Carter, Year 12

The GWR team praised the students for their professionalism, enthusiasm, and exemplary behaviour throughout the week, noting how well they represented the college:

"They did themselves and the school very proud while they were here. They committed to the experience and all the teams really enjoyed having them with them. They were so polite, friendly, and looked out for each other too. It was a pleasure to have them with us, and we would be very happy to see them at GWR in the future."

Year 10 student Darion also received special recognition from an onboard crew member:

"Darion was polite, proactive in asking what he could help with, and showed a genuine interest in my role onboard. He interacted well with colleagues and passengers throughout the day. At just 14 years of age, he represented himself and his school exceptionally well. Well done, Darion!"

Work experience opportunities like these remain central to Scott College's commitment to equipping students with real-world skills, confidence, and professional connections.

Congratulations to all the students involved for making such a brilliant impression!