Network Rail Assessments Tests and Video Interviews 2024 Practice. A Full Guide.

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SUMMARY

Are you applying to Network Rail 2024 internships or graduate opportunities? Are you exploring a professional job opportunity at Network Rail in the UK? This comprehensive guide is for you.

Our website provides scientifically validated practice assessment tests, interviews and assessment centre exercises that can be used to practice and prepare for the recruitment and assessment process.

Should you practice assessments to prepare for the Network Rail recruitment process?

IN A NUTSHELL

How to prepare for Network Rail aptitude tests and get the job?

1. Complete your Network Rail Online Application
   • Fill in your Network Rail online application.
   • Match your application to Network Rail’s business ethics.
   • Use keywords from the job post in your resume.
   • Tailor the information you provide with the role’s competency needs.
2. Practice For Network Rail Online Assessment Tests

Network Rail uses a variety of aptitude assessment tests. These may include;

• Numerical Reasoning Tests
• Verbal Reasoning Tests
• Inductive Reasoning Tests
• Situational Judgement Tests

3. Record mock video interviews of yourself

Prepare for your Network Rail video interview by running mock interviews and answering typical interview questions for the role you are applying for. For Network Rail interview practice, use the following:

• a smartphone to record yourself
• Zoom or
• Our reliable video interview platform

Use the STAR method for your answers and practice each answer several times.

4. Prepare for the Network Rail Assessment Centre Exercises

Network Rail makes use of a variety of competitive exercises during the assessment centre to find the right candidates. Ensure that you practice for a variety of exercises including:

• Group exercise
• Case study
• Final interview

Continue reading to get answers to the following important questions:

1. What is the Network Rail Application Process and how do I prepare for it?
2. How can I pass Network Rail assessments?
3. How do I prepare for the Network Rail video interview?
4. What is the Network Rail assessment centre?
5. What are Network Rail graduate schemes?

Looking to prepare for your upcoming Network Rail assessments? Simply click on the table below to practice similar tests relevant to your Network Rail application process!

The Network Rail recruitment process has several stages which we break down under the following:

Contents

1. Who is Network Rail?
2. Network Rail Online Application Form
3. Network Rail Assessments
4. Network Rail Video Interview
5. Network Rail Assessment Centre
6. Network Rail Graduate Schemes
7. Network Rail Assessment FAQs

So, without further ado, let’s get started!

Who is Network Rail?

Network Rail is a British government-owned company responsible for operating, maintaining, and developing most of the railway infrastructure in England, Scotland, and Wales. Headquartered in London, UK, It was established in 2002, taking over the responsibility from its predecessor, Railtrack.

Network Rail is one of Britain’s largest employers. With over 42,000 staff, Network Rail screens hundreds of graduates, professionals, and apprentices to select the best candidates for its vacant positions. 

Discover the range of roles available in Network Rail below.

Business Areas in Network Rail

Where can I apply at Network Rail?

Network Rail operates in several key business areas, each offering various roles and functions. Some of these business areas are;

These are a few of the business areas of opportunities within Network Rail. How do you get one of the many jobs at Network Rail?

What are Network Rail’s Business Ethics?

Network Rail’s business ethics are values that set the standard of behaviour that is expected of all its employees. These business ethics are structured by the organisation’s corporate values and culture which include the following;

• Empowered to ACT
• Always be safe
• Teamwork is key
• Care about people

Network Rail also expects these codes to help its employees work openly and honestly in line with the Nolan Principles, also known as The Seven Principles of Public Life. 

What are the Network Rail Nolan Principles?

The Nolan Principles are:

1. Selflessness: Acting solely in terms of public interest.

2. Integrity: Avoid being under any obligations that might try to inappropriately influence your work or compromise your uprightness.

3. Objectivity: Act and take decisions impartially.

4. Accountability: Must be accountable to the public and submit to scrutiny when necessary.

5. Openness: Act and take decisions openly and transparently.

6. Honesty: Uphold truthfulness at all times.

7. Leadership: Exhibit these principles in your behaviour, actively promote and support the principles, treat others with respect, and challenge poor behaviour wherever it occurs.

The Network Rail recruitment process has different stages, which we cover in the following sections below. Read on to find out!

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Network Rail Online Application Form

How do I apply to Network Rail?

The first step in securing your dream job with Network Rail is completing an online application form. Visit the official Network Rail careers website to browse through their current open roles and apply for a position of your choice.

While filling out the online application, you will be required to provide information that covers the following areas:

• Personal information 
• Education and qualifications 
• Contact information 
• Resume upload/Experience
• Diversity e.g. race, ethnicity, religion etc.
• Additional information, e.g. disability information, need for sponsorship, etc.

Network Rail uses data from the application form to check if you meet entry requirements. If you do, you may be required to complete one or two Network Rail assessments.

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Network Rail Assessments

What are Network Rail assessments?

Network Rail assessments are psychometrics tests that are designed and given to applicants to assess for behaviours and skills you will need to succeed in a role or a program. These tests help reveal more of your capabilities and potential.

What does the Network Rail assessments include?

The Network Rail assessments are provided by a well-known test publisher SHL. You may be required to complete one or a combination of the following assessments:

1. Network Rail Situational Judgement Test
2. Network Rail Numerical Reasoning Test
3. Network Rail Verbal Reasoning Test
4. Network Rail Inductive Reasoning Test

Let’s find out what each of these Network Rail SHL tests are, what they entail and what they assess.

1. Network Rail Situational Judgement Test

What is the Network Rail situational judgement test?

The Network Rail situational judgement test is an assessment designed to assess desired behaviours in the job role. This test presents you with a series of realistic workplace scenarios and requires you to make decisions based on these situations.

Want to understand more about the Network Rail SHL situational judgement test? Watch our short video below.

What does the Network Rail situational judgement test measure?

The questions asked in the Network Rail situational judgement test will probe for values Network Rail employees are expected to uphold in their daily conduct. These values dictate the organisation’s work culture and we have covered them under Network Rail’s Business Ethics.

Beyond Network Rail’s business ethics, the situational judgement test will also assess you for specific competencies you will need to succeed in the role.

Network Rail-style Situational Judgement Test Example

Below, we have curated a few handy tips to help you build confidence and adequately ace your Network Rail SHL situational judgement test.

Top 6 Tips to Pass Network Rail Situational Judgement Test

1. Take note of the required qualifications and abilities needed for the position you are applying for. Read the job description carefully and do a little research about the role and company.

2. Familiarise yourself with Network Rail’s Business Ethics. Understanding the organisation’s culture will help you align your responses with their expectations.

3. Practice situational judgement tests beforehand to get a feel for the format and what to anticipate from the questions.

4. Pay close attention to the details of each scenario presented in the test. Ensure you understand the context, the people involved, and the situation before making your judgement.

5. Take your time to evaluate the response options available in each scenario. Consider the potential outcomes and consequences of each choice.

6. Try to maintain a consistent approach to your decision-making. This will show that you can apply your judgement consistently across various scenarios.

For more tips to help you nail your Network Rail situational judgement test watch our short video below.

After completing the Network Rail situational judgement test, the following assessment you will likely be headed for is Network Rail’s numerical reasoning test.

2. Network Rail Numerical Reasoning Test

What is the Network Rail numerical reasoning test?

The Network Rail numerical reasoning test is designed to evaluate your ability to analyse data and understand numerical information. In Network Rail’s numerical test, you will be presented with multiple-choice questions on graphs, percentages, ratios, and data tables.

How long is the Network Rail numerical reasoning test?

The Network Rail numerical reasoning test is a timed test. You will have 20 minutes to answer 20 questions.

What does the Network Rail numerical reasoning test measure?

Beyond your ability to analyse data and understand numerical information, this test will also assess your ability to make informed decisions from numerical data.

Check out the video to discover even more about how the Network Rail numerical reasoning test works!

How to Pass the Network Rail Numerical Reasoning Test

1. Familiarise yourself with the format and structure of the test e.g. types and number of questions. Knowing what to expect allows you to allocate your time wisely and focus on answering questions correctly.

2. Ensure you have a strong foundation in basic mathematical concepts. Revising basic maths covered at the GCSE level is helpful.

3. Develop a balance between speed and accuracy. Allocate a specific amount of time to each question and move on if you get stuck to ensure you complete all questions.

4. Read questions carefully by paying close attention to the wording of each question. Misinterpreting a question can lead to errors. Understand what is being asked before attempting to answer.

5. When taking the test, create a quiet and distraction-free environment. This will help you concentrate and perform at your best.

6. Practice is key to improving your numerical reasoning skills. Using the GF platform to practice is proven to help you improve your speed and accuracy and overall, your score.

For more hints on how to pass the Network Rail numerical reasoning test, watch our short video below. 

Using the tips we provided above and in the video, take the opportunity to try a Network Rail-style SHL numerical reasoning test question below!

Network Rail-style Numerical Reasoning Test Example

Did you get the correct answer? Check the bottom of the page to find out.

After assessing your analytical skills with the numerical reasoning tests, Network Rail will also look to understand your verbal skills through verbal reasoning tests.

3. Network Rail Verbal Reasoning Test?

What is the Network Rail verbal reasoning test?

The Network Rail verbal reasoning test is an assessment designed to evaluate your ability to deduce information from written reports, paragraphs, or passages. In this test, you will be required to read short paragraphs and answer questions on them.

How long is the Network Rail verbal reasoning test?

The Network Rail verbal reasoning test is a timed multiple-choice test. You will have 15 minutes to answer 30 questions.

What does the Network Rail verbal reasoning test measure?

This test assesses your ability to read, understand, analyse, and make accurate decisions from written information. 

In our short video below, we explain more about what the Network Rail verbal reasoning test is all about.

How to Pass the Network Rail Verbal Reasoning Test

Below are 5 top tips to help you ace Network Rail’s verbal reasoning test.

1. Familiarise yourself with the format and structure of the test. Knowing what to expect in terms of question types and time limits helps you prepare effectively and reduces anxiety.

2. Practice speed reading techniques to increase your reading speed while maintaining comprehension. They help you cover more ground in less time, allowing you to read through passages more quickly.

3. Pay attention to details and major points in the text. Highlight key points and make mental notes of details that stand out as you read through the text.

4. Expand your vocabulary and work on your understanding of words in context. This can help you answer questions related to word meanings and usage.

5. Practice verbal reasoning questions regularly to improve your reading comprehension skills and become accustomed to the types of questions you’ll encounter.

For more tips on how to pass the Network Rail verbal reasoning test, watch this short video:

Practice a free Network Rail-style SHL verbal reasoning test question below using the tips we provided above and in the video!

Network Rail-style Verbal Reasoning Test Example

Did you get the right answer? Check the bottom of the page to find out.

Most applicants proceed to the Network Rail video interview following the verbal reasoning test. However, for engineering graduate applicants, there’s an additional test: the inductive reasoning test which we cover below!

4. Network Rail Inductive Reasoning Test

What is the Network Rail inductive reasoning test?

The Network Rail inductive reasoning test is a logical reasoning test with multiple-choice questions that assesses your capability to identify patterns, make logical connections and draw conclusions based on sets of information or data to accurately solve problems.

What does the Network Rail Inductive reasoning test measure?

The Network Rail inductive reasoning test assesses problem-solving, attention to detail, and logical skills. You will be required to complete a series of shapes/patterns/objects by identifying the underlying logic or pattern.

Watch our short video below to understand more about the Network Rail inductive or logical reasoning test.

5 Top Tips to Pass Network Rail Inductive Reasoning Test

1. Familiarise yourself with the format and structure of inductive reasoning tests using similar practice tests to eliminate uncertainty and anxiety.

2. Practice timed inductive reasoning test questions regularly to improve your pattern recognition and deduction skills under time pressure.

3. Work on a variety of puzzles to further hone your ability to recognise and reason with different types of patterns and sequences. 

4. Take a moment to analyse the patterns or rules that guide a sequence when presented with the set of shapes. Look for similarities, differences, and trends.

5. Maintain a balance between time and accuracy. A good way to ensure this is to spread the time given across each question equally.

For even more Network Rail logical reasoning test tips, check out our short video below!

Using the tips you have learned above and from the video, practice this logical reasoning question similar to the Network Rail SHL inductive reasoning test question below!

Network Rail-style Inductive Reasoning Test Example

Did you get the right answer? Check the bottom of the page to find out.

If you are successful in the Network Rail assessments, the next stage is the Network Rail Video Interview where you will be required to answer pre-recorded questions. Read more about it in the next section!

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Network Rail Video Interview

What is a Network Rail video interview?

The Network Rail video interview is an online interview where you will be required to record video responses to a series of pre-recorded interview questions. You will receive an interview invitation link with a 7-day preparation and recording window.

What does the Network Rail video interview measure?

This Network Rail interview is used by the organisation to; find out more about you, what motivates you, how you go about things, and assess if you align with the company’s values and your potential to succeed with the company.

Our short video below explains further what the Network Rail video interview is all about and how it is used.

7 Top Tips to Pass the Network Rail Video Interview

1. Research the position you applied for and also Network Rail beforehand. This will help you determine the required competencies for the role and also the work culture expected of Network Rail employees.

2. Understand Network Rail’s business ethics, corporate values, and the Nolan Principles. This helps you to be able to prepare and give answers that reflect Network Rail’s ethics and codes of conduct.

3. Aim to be concise and clear when recording your answers to the questions. This ensures that you give straightforward answers that are easy to understand.

4. Use the STAR+R technique to structure your answers. This helps you provide specific examples of your experiences and achievements.

5. Dress Professionally: Dress in professional attire as you would for an in-person interview. This helps create a positive impression.

6. Use proper body language. Maintaining eye contact with the camera and using hand gestures when necessary gives an impression of confidence and expertise. 

7. Practice with common Network Rail interview questions. You can record practice sessions to review your answers and assess your communication and body language skills.

Use the tips above to practice the following Network Rail video interview questions.

Network Rail Video Interview Questions and Answers

5 common Network Rail video interview questions are;

1. Why do you want to work for Network Rail?
2. What experience do you have in the rail industry?
3. Tell me about a time when you had to deal with a difficult situation at work.
4. Tell me about a time when you went above and beyond the call of duty.
5. What do you think are the most important qualities for success in this role?

We give example answers to a couple of these Network Rail interview questions below and tips on how to answer them.

Why do you want to work for Network Rail?

Good Answer:

• I’m genuinely excited about the opportunity to work for Network Rail because of the company’s unwavering commitment to safety and its pivotal role in ensuring the reliability and efficiency of the UK’s railway infrastructure. Throughout my career, I’ve been passionate about contributing to industries that have a significant societal impact, and the railway sector aligns perfectly with that goal. 

• I’m excited about Network Rail’s innovation in addressing industry challenges, including advanced tech for predictive maintenance and sustainability efforts. I want to be part of this cutting-edge team.

Tell me about a time when you had to deal with a difficult situation at work.

Good Answer: 

• Situation: Situation: In my previous role as a project manager at XYZ Company, we faced a challenging situation when a key team member suddenly resigned just before a critical project deadline.

• Task: My task was to ensure the project stayed on track and met its deadline despite the unexpected departure, as the project was essential for a major client.

• Action: First, I immediately assessed the remaining team members’ skills and workload to determine how to redistribute tasks. I also communicated transparently with the client about the situation, outlining our plan to mitigate any delays. Simultaneously, I worked with HR to expedite the hiring process for a replacement.

• Result: Despite the setback, we successfully delivered the project on time with high-quality results. Our client appreciated our transparency and dedication to meeting their expectations. 

• Reflect: The experience taught me the importance of proactive communication, teamwork, and adaptability in overcoming unexpected challenges in the workplace.

After reviewing your submission at the video interview and you scale through, the next stage in the Network Rail recruitment process is the Network Rail assessment centre. 

We cover all you need to know about this in the next section!

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Network Rail Assessment Centre?

What is the Network Rail assessment centre?

The Network Rail assessment centre is the final stage of the Network Rail recruitment process. If you pass the video interview, you may be invited to an assessment centre with other shortlisted candidates for complete exercises and a final interview.

What should I expect in the Network Rail assessment centre?

You will be required to complete some or all the following exercises;

1. Network Rail Group Exercise
2. Network Rail Case Study
3. Network Rail Final Interview

Read on to understand what each of these tasks entails, what they assess, and tips on how to pass them.

1. Network Rail Group Exercise

What is the Network Rail group exercise?

In the Network Rail group exercise, you will be grouped with other candidates and presented with a specific scenario, problem, or task to analyse, solve, and make a decision within a specific time frame.

The specific group exercise will depend on the position you applied for but each group exercise will typically do the same thing; assess your ability to work in a team.

7 Top Tips to Ace the Network Rail Group Exercise

1. Listen Actively: Pay close attention to what other participants are saying. Actively listening to your team members’ ideas and perspectives is essential for effective collaboration.

2. Contribute Constructively: Offer your input and ideas when appropriate. Be constructive in your contributions and support your statements with reasoning or evidence.

3. Balance Leadership: If the exercise allows for leadership roles, consider taking on a leadership role or assisting the leader. However, also be willing to follow and support the team’s chosen direction.

4. Manage Time Wisely: Keep an eye on the time, and help the group stay on track. Avoid getting overly focused on one aspect of the exercise to ensure that all tasks are addressed within the allotted time.

5. Stay Calm and Positive: Maintain a calm and positive demeanour throughout the exercise, even if challenges arise. Positivity and composure can contribute to a more productive team dynamic.

6. Respect Differences: Respect diverse viewpoints and approaches within the group. Differing perspectives can lead to innovative solutions.

7. Practice Prioritisation: When faced with multiple tasks or decisions, practice prioritizing based on importance and impact. This helps ensure that critical aspects are addressed first.

Watch our video below to learn more about what to expect in your Network Rail group exercise!

2. Network Rail Case Study

What is the Network Rail Case Study?

In Network Rail’s case study, you will be provided with an information booklet or given a detailed scenario to analyse, identify key issues, propose solutions, and make recommendations based on their analysis.

This exercise assesses your ability to analyze complex scenarios, make strategic decisions, and communicate your findings and recommendations effectively. You may also be required to partake in a presentation exercise, presenting your findings and solutions from the case study.

8 Top Tips to Ace the Network Rail Case Study

1. Understand the Scenario: Take the time to thoroughly understand the case study scenario, including the background, challenges, and objectives.

2. Structure Your Approach: Use a structured approach to analyse the case. Consider frameworks or models relevant to the problem-solving process.

3. Prioritise Key Issues: Identify and prioritise the most critical issues or factors in the case. Focus on the ones that will have the most significant impact on Network Rail.

4. Use Visual Aids: If allowed, use visual aids (e.g., charts, graphs, slides) in your presentation to enhance clarity and engagement.

5. Practice Delivery: Practice your presentation multiple times to ensure you can deliver it confidently and within the allocated time.

6. Engage with Assessors: During the presentation, engage with the assessors by maintaining eye contact, speaking clearly, and addressing questions or feedback.

7. Be Concise: Keep your presentation concise and focused, emphasising the most critical points and recommendations.

8. Anticipate Questions: Prepare for potential questions or challenges from the assessors and be ready to defend your analysis and recommendations.

3. Network Rail Final Interview

What happens in the final Network Rail interview?

The final exercise in Network Rail’s assessment centre is a final interview. The Network Rail final interview is designed specifically for the role you have applied for and to help the recruiters assess your skills, behaviours and capabilities.

The questions in this final interview will be a mix of competency, behavioural, and safety questions which will allow Network Rail recruiters to evaluate your skills and behaviours properly.

What questions are asked in the Network Rail final interview?

Some Network Rail interview questions at this stage include;

• What are the Network Rail 10 life-saving rules?
• Tell us a time you saw someone doing something wrong. What did you do?
• How did you deal with a safety issue at work?
• Tell us about a time when you disagreed with a colleague and how you went about it.
• How do you encourage inclusivity within the workplace? 
• What does safety mean to you?

How do you answer Network Rail interview questions?

Consider the following 6 tips to answer questions during your Network Rail final interview.

1. Tailor your answers to Network Rail’s core values and approach to safety. Demonstrate how you align with their ethics and culture.

2. Leverage your experience when giving your answers. Your answers are more effective when they are backed up with evidence.

3. Keep your answers simple. Overall, the recruiters are just trying to get to know you better, regarding your skills and behaviours, and assess how well you would fit in Network Rail.

4. Practice beforehand. Always practice your answers before your interview. practice your answers in front of a mirror or with friends until your flow and delivery are impeccable.

5. Stay informed about developments in the railway industry and any news related to Network Rail. This knowledge can help you engage in informed discussions or make proper references during the interview.

6. Prepare thoughtful questions to ask the interviewers about the role, the team, and the company. This demonstrates your genuine interest and engagement in the position.

Discover 5 top questions you could ask in your Network Rail final interview with our short video below:

And….that’s a wrap on the Network Rail recruitment process! If you are successful in the process, Network Rail’s team will contact you with their decision.

While you’re here…Don’t miss the captivating range of entry roles and graduate programs that await you at Network Rail.

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Network Rail Graduate Schemes

What are Network Rail Graduate Schemes?

Network Rail provides a handful of exciting opportunities for young talents to kickstart their careers and get quality foundational years of experience. In these programs, you’ll enjoy variety, unrivalled experience, and expert training.

Below is the range of opportunities Network Rail has made available for you to kickstart your career:

1. Network Rail Graduate schemes
2. Network Rail Apprenticeships
3. Network Rail Summer placements
4. Network Rail Year in Industry placements

1. Network Rail Graduate Schemes

What are the Network Rail graduate schemes?

The Network Rail graduate schemes are programs that offer the expert training and professional development you need to build a secure and successful career.

You will gain hands-on experience across a wide range of roles and projects through rotations in different placements to discover what interests you, where your passions lie and what your future career direction could be. Network Rail’s graduate schemes are: 

• Engineering Graduate schemes
• Business function Graduate schemes

Eligibility Criteria for Network Rail graduate schemes

• Education: For engineering graduate schemes you will need at least a 2:2 in a related engineering degree. For business function graduate schemes you need at least a 2:2 in any degree (except the Property Graduate scheme where you need a 2:2 in a similar degree).

• Experience: No specific prior experience is required.

• Duration: A full-time role lasting between 18 months and four years.

• Applications: Applications open in Autumn.

2. Network Rail Apprenticeships

What are Network Rail apprenticeships?

Network Rail apprenticeships offer all the structure, support, and experience you need to grow and develop while also offering you more career paths. This program allows you to earn while also studying to earn a degree or qualification.

Network Rail apprenticeships allow entry into several business areas including; engineering, finance, business, IT, Data Analysis, etc.

Eligibility Criteria for Network Rail apprenticeships

• Education: A minimum of GCSE grades are required. However, note that there are some varying specific requirements based on the level of apprenticeship and the business area.

• Experience: No specific prior experience is required.

• Duration: Depending on the level and business area, a Network Rail apprenticeship can last between 2 to 5 years.

• Applications: You need to register interest for the next intake on the Network Rail careers website as applications are currently closed.

3. Network Rail Summer Placements

What is the Network Rail Summer Placements Program?

The Network Rail summer program helps you experience a career with the company. You will work in a specific business area where you will have real responsibilities and be able to share ideas, voice opinions and show what you’re made of.

The scheme is run by experienced managers, with the support of past graduates, so you can have expert guidance and be able to gain real insight into what we do and the sort of career you could pursue.

Summer placements program takes entry into multiple business areas, including; Engineering, Finance, Management, etc.

Eligibility Criteria for Network Rail summer placements

• Education: Penultimate year at university, and on track to achieve at least a 2:2 in any degree. For the engineering placements, at least a 2:2 in a similar engineering degree.

• Experience: Students.

• Duration: Lasts for ten weeks.

• Applications: Opens in Autumn.

4. Network Rail Year In Industry Placements

What is the Network Rail Year In Industry Placements Program?

Network Rail’s year in industry placements program will give you the chance to experience the Network Rail culture, discover career varieties and gain exposure to a wide range of projects and possibilities.

You will also be able to develop your professional experience, enhance your skill set and build a strong network of professionals to help guide you as you progress further in your career.

 This program offers engineering and business functions placements.

Eligibility Criteria for Network Rail Year in Industry placements

• Education: Penultimate year at university, and on track to achieve at least a 2:2 in any degree. For the engineering placements, at least a 2:2 in a similar engineering degree.

• Experience: Students.

• Duration: 1 year

• Applications: Opens in Autumn.

And with that, we’ve covered all you’ll need to know about Network Rail’s Assessments, recruitment process, and roles/programs you could potentially apply to.

But wait!

Before you start your Network Rail application and assessments, explore our FAQ section below for more answers about the Network Rail hiring process.

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Network Rail Assessment FAQs