Bolsover students get hands-on insight into railway careers with EMR

A group of Bolsover School students have stepped into the world of rail, gaining first-hand experience of the industry during a behind-the-scenes visit to East Midlands Railway’s (EMR) headquarters in Derby.

The 14 Year 8 students didn’t just learn—they got stuck in. From operating a driver training simulator to exploring how ticketing works in real life, the visit brought the railway to life in a way the classroom simply can’t.

Backed by Bolsover District Council and funded by EMR, CrossCountry and the Community Rail Network, the day was designed to showcase the wide range of careers available across the sector.

Students met professionals from across the business—including engineering, marketing, operations and apprenticeships—giving them a clearer picture of the many pathways into the industry.

For many, it opened their eyes to opportunities they hadn’t considered before. One student described the experience as “fantastic,” highlighting the simulator session and newfound interest in engineering careers.

Teachers also praised the impact of the visit, noting how real-world experiences like this help students better understand their future options while keeping them engaged and inspired.

EMR says events like this are key to attracting the next generation of talent, showcasing the diversity of roles on offer—from train driving and engineering to customer service and communications.