This week, Newcastle based train operator Lumo has successfully completed its first year partnering with Newcastle College, equipping the next generation of local travel and tourism professionals with invaluable skills for the sector.
Lumo successfully welcomed four cohorts of students to take part in a 6-week work experience placement, into its headquarters in Newcastle on the site of the former Stephenson locomotive works.
After identifying a lack of rail sector placement initiatives designed for students studying travel and tourism, the scheme has been established by Lumo and Newcastle College to bolster opportunities for young adults in the region. The Tyneside based operator has welcomed 50 students studying Travel and Aviation to experience and encourage a career in rail.
Real-life experience is at the centre of the initiative, with the aim of helping students prepare for embarking on a range of roles on offer. Designed to give hands-on experience, students have taken roles onboard the trains dealing with customers daily, as well as working alongside the planning team, problem solving and amending live train schedules.
In addition to this, students have been given the option to receive additional, future-proof, career support. For example, mock interviews and coaching sessions to gain valuable transferable skills.
Martijn Gilbert, Managing Director at Lumo, said: “At Lumo we’re passionate about creating opportunities for the next generation. As a local employer in Newcastle, we’re proud to be working in partnership with Newcastle College to actively boost the rail industry as a great career choice for young people.
“The range of skills in our industry is vast so our placement programme is designed with flexibility. We want students to find their own niche, whether that’s a more creative role working in head office alongside the marketing team or, a people first position with our Customer Experience Ambassadors on board.”
Tanya Brown, Curriculum Lead at Newcastle College, said: “Historically many of our students favour a career in aviation, as to date there has been significantly more opportunities and exposure. So, we’re keen to show them the endless possibilities of a successful and fulfilling career in the rail industry. The partnership with Lumo has done exactly that. A programme designed specifically for college students, to gain realistic experience and develop practical skills that they can carry throughout their career. We’re excited to see what the future holds, as we continue our partnership with Lumo in years to come.”
Lumo and Newcastle College have already started planning for the 2024/25 term. They’re aiming to drive opportunities for young people in the rail industry to new heights with students and like many customers, switching their preferences from plane to train.