All aboard and on track from the start
Network Rail were committed to delivering new starter inductions that were much more than a box-ticking exercise. Their ambition was to create a national onboarding experience that inspired every new employee, brought the company’s story to life and prepared managers to lead with confidence.
The result? An immersive two-day journey that turned orientation into something interactive, memorable and uniquely ‘Network Rail’.
At a glance
An innovative, transformational way of thoroughly engaging participants.
Interactive experiences using the latest technology
Significant improvement in integration and knowledge retention
Specialised manager preparation through dedicated second-day training
Simpler, Better, Greener ethos embedded throughout the programme
The client
Network Rail owns, operates and develops Britain’s railway infrastructure, from tracks and signalling systems to bridges, tunnels and major stations. With responsibility for keeping the network safe, reliable and sustainable, they play a vital role in both passenger and freight services.
The challenge
With thousands of new starters every year, Network Rail needed to transform its induction into a consistent, engaging and scalable national programme. The goals were clear:
- Bring the company’s rich history and values to life.
- Build early connections between employees.
- Equip managers to step confidently into their leadership responsibilities.
A journey that brought the railway to life
Working in close partnership with Network Rail’s leadership team, Fuel Learning designed a two-day induction experience that mirrored the journey of the railway itself, blending technology, storytelling and interactive learning.
Day one – for all new employees
- Explored the company’s heritage through an interactive timeline wall with augmented reality.
- Built early relationships in groups named after railway pioneers.
- Rotated through themed ‘stations’ covering safety, customer service, performance and values.
- Discovered rewards, career development opportunities and sustainability initiatives at interactive hubs.
Day two – for new managers
- Immersed in targeted sessions on leadership expectations.
- Practised handling real-life management scenarios to build confidence and capability.
The impact
The programme created one national standard for induction, welcoming up to 200 new employees every month across the UK. By turning onboarding into an interactive railway journey, it ensured every new starter and every manager left with a stronger connection to Network Rail’s mission and the confidence to succeed.
“This induction didn’t just tell me about Network Rail – it made me feel part of it from day one.”
2024 new starter