But…what is a SuperSquad?
A practical, paid work experience programme where teens engage with real business and societal challenges.
Through the Northern Rail SuperSquad, this innovative and diverse team of young people set out to answer a bold question: How might we make Northern Rail a destination career for non-rail enthusiasts?
Over six weeks, they explored real roles, interviewed rail professionals, and tackled everything from public perceptions to career misconceptions.
They didn’t just come up with ideas—they reimagined how a whole generation could see themselves in the sector.
Their ideas tapped directly into what matters most to young people today: variety, purpose, flexibility, and hands-on experience.
Concepts like the Work-Life Balance Showcase, School Train Visits, and the Inflatable Train Stand brought rail careers to life in fun, immersive ways that shifted perceptions and sparked genuine curiosity.
The Squad didn’t just generate ideas—they offered a blueprint for how the rail industry can connect with future talent through relatable experiences and content that reflects their world.
By the end of the programme, interest in Northern as a future employer more than doubled—from 14% at the start to 36%. With 76% of Squad members stating they believe you don’t need to go to university to get a good job, and evident enthusiasm for roles like Rail Engineering Apprentice, it’s clear that rail has the potential to become a destination career.
These young people showed how, when given the opportunity, they can shape practical, future-focused solutions that align with their aspirations—and redefine what a modern rail career can look like, opening new pathways into industries that need them tomorrow.
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Contains a detailed overview of the programmes and a bid support appendix
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