An Australian-First: Cert II in Heavy and Light Rail Fundamentals

The Rail Academy has developed a Certificate II in Heavy and Light Rail Fundamentals as a VET Delivered in Secondary Schools program.

The highly successful two-year pilot program came to an end this October, having provided 13 students with the opportunity to learn more about the rail and construction industry.

The only course of its kind in Australia, the program provides in-depth knowledge and a realistic view of the heavy (train) and light (tram) rail industry in Victoria.

Macey, a student of the 2020 - 2021 cohort, grew up around trucks and transport which shaped her love for anything with a motor. This sparked her interest to start a career in the rail network.

“My dream job has always been to become a train driver, so I was beyond excited to start this program,” Macey said.

As well as providing students with a chance to learn about the industry, the program also gives students with learning difficulties the opportunity to engage with the program.

Xan may find some of the learning challenging at times, yet he feels he's supported, encouraged, and inspired throughout the program.

“The Rail Academy is the best course I have ever done,” he said. Being part of the course has helped him feel more independent and gain confidence in public speaking.

The 2020 - 2021 student cohort finished the course this October, with the highly popular program already filling up for next year’s intake.

The Rail Academy is proud of the dedication and passion shown by the 2020-2021 student cohort, who are now well equipped to seek out future opportunities in rail.

This program is giving students a real shot of gaining work in the rail industry and fulfilling their dreams of working in rail.