Rail student offered IRO study opportunity

The Institution of Railway Operators has announced that one lucky student from the rail industry is being offered a special place on the IRO’s degree course, courtesy of Network Rail.

The place is being given in memory of former IRO chairman and Network Rail’s director of operations Derek Holmes, who sadly died at the beginning of the year.

Starting in October, the degree in Railway Operational Management lasts two years and forms part of the IRO’s Professional Development Programme, which also includes Certificate and Diploma courses.

The courses are developed and delivered in partnership with Glasgow Caledonian University and are designed specifically to meet the needs of the individual and the rail industry, with all courses leading to academically recognised qualifications.

PDP courses are ideally suited for those looking to develop their career within the rail sector and are delivered through a combination of distance learning, self study and tutorials. The degree course itself includes the following core topics:

• Safety Law and Management;
• Train Movement and Control Systems;
• Railway Engineering;
• Emergency Planning;
• Managing Passenger and Freight Operations;
• Railway Economics; and,
• Train Planning and Performance Management

Commenting on the award, IRO board member and Network Rail route director,

Jo Kaye said: “We’re delighted to be able to offer this bursary in Derek’s name.

“Derek believed passionately in the ongoing need to develop and improve standards in railway operations – something the IRO and its Professional Development Programme is helping to achieve.”

For more information on the opportunity, email tricia.meade@railwayoperators.org.