Job Overview
Transport for London’s (TfL) General Management Apprenticeship supports colleagues, customers, and the delivery of London’s transport network. This is an opportunity to shape the future of London, working alongside highly experienced professionals while bringing fresh insights.
From day one, apprentices will have a voice within TfL, helping to drive real change. The General Management Apprenticeship Scheme is designed to kick-start careers, developing future leaders in one of the world’s most dynamic transport organisations.
What Will the Apprenticeship Involve?
The four-year development programme consists of up to eight placement rotations. The scheme is designed to equip apprentices with the skills and experience needed for a successful career.
While each apprentice’s journey is unique, the scheme structure may include:
- A four-week operational placement on London Underground.
- A six-month office-based placement, arranged for the apprentice.
- A four-week surface operational placement, which could involve working on river boats or supporting TfL’s policing teams to ensure network security.
Examples of Past Placements
Apprentices will initially be assigned to their first and second placements by their Apprenticeship Sponsor. Previous apprentices have worked in:
- London Transport Museum
- Customer Strategy
- Climate Change Adaptation
- TfL Consulting
- E-Scooter Trials
- Investment Delivery Planning
- City Planning
- Property Development
- Diversity & Inclusion
In the third and fourth years, apprentices can tailor their placements to match career interests.
The final placement will involve a research project, focusing on a business improvement that could contribute to a dissertation project.
What TfL Offers
Apprentices will have access to a range of benefits, including:
- Free travel on the TfL network for the apprentice and a nominee who lives in the same household.
- Final salary pension scheme.
- Discounted national rail and Eurostar travel.
- 30 days annual leave, plus public and bank holidays.
- Private healthcare discounted scheme.
- Tax-efficient cycle-to-work programme.
- Retail, health, leisure, and travel discounts.
Important Information
- Depending on placements, apprentices may work a variety of hours, including night shifts during operational placements.
Entry Requirements
To be eligible for this apprenticeship, applicants must:
- *Hold or be working towards at least 2 GCSEs (Grade A - C / Grade 4 and above)**, including Maths and English Language.
- Hold or be working towards 3 A-Levels (Grade A - C) or equivalent*.
- Not already hold or be working towards a qualification at the same or higher level in a related subject.
- Provide original certificates and/or predicted grades as proof for eligibility checks.
- Be at least 18 years old before the start date (11th September 2025).
Medical Requirements
Successful applicants must pass a satisfactory medical assessment, which may include but is not limited to:
- Drugs and alcohol screening
- Eye test and hearing test
Sustainability
Sustainability is intrinsic to TfL’s work ethos, ensuring operations protect and regenerate the natural world.
During the apprenticeship, apprentices will:
- Complete Carbon Literacy training and have the opportunity to become a trainer themselves.
- Undertake placements that support TfL’s green strategy, helping the organisation remain a strong, green heartbeat for London.
Where Can This Career Take You?
Upon successful completion of this scheme, apprentices could transition into roles such as:
- Customer Service Manager
- Assistant Business Strategy Planner
These roles could lead to further career development opportunities such as:
- Trains Operations Manager
- Business Strategy Manager
Qualifications Gained
- Degree in Business Management
- Level 6 Chartered Manager Accreditation
What Training & Support Will You Get?
Apprentices will receive comprehensive training and development, including:
- On-the-job practical experience and structured placements.
- Training courses, mentoring, and networking opportunities.
- A qualification in Project Management.
- One-to-One Guidance Will Be Provided By:
- Placement Manager – Responsible for day-to-day guidance.
- Buddy System – Support from a current apprentice or graduate to ensure a smooth transition.
- Development Adviser – Supports career coaching and progression at TfL.
- Scheme Sponsor – A senior manager providing technical and professional advice.
What TfL Looks for in Candidates
The General Management scheme is designed to develop future leaders who can manage challenges and deliver the best for colleagues and customers.
TfL seeks motivated individuals who demonstrate the following qualities:
- Caring about colleagues, customers, and the work they do.
- Being open to new ideas and working together effectively.
- Being adaptable, innovative, and responsive to diverse needs.
Application Guidance
- The application will include eligibility questions.
- Candidates must ensure accuracy, as errors cannot be reversed.
- Only one application is allowed per year for any TfL Apprenticeship Scheme.
- Subsequent applications will be withdrawn.
Assessment Process
Candidates will receive support and information throughout the assessment stages.
For further details, visit the TfL website:
https://tfl.gov.uk/corporate/careers/how-to-apply-for-apprentice-and-graduate-roles
- Applicants have one week to complete assessments.
- Assessment centres for apprenticeship roles will take place from February to April.
- Most roles have only one assessment day (dates cannot be rescheduled).
- Assessments may be conducted in person or virtually, depending on the role.
Inclusive Recruitment Process
TfL is a Disability Confident Employer and offers guaranteed interviews to candidates who meet the minimum criteria.
TfL is committed to ensuring a fair and robust reasonable adjustments process, collaborating with Occupational Health colleagues and other expert organisations.
Applicants requiring reasonable adjustments should notify TfL as soon as possible.
Contact Information
For further details or to request reasonable adjustments, please use the following contact information:
Phone: 0203 005 1680 (Monday – Friday, 09:00 – 17:30)
Email: earlycareerscampaigns@tfl.gov.uk