The scheme was officially launched at a pioneering training centre for Network Rail in Walsall, West Midlands. The complex features a realistic mock rail environment where employees can practise practical engineering techniques or shadow experienced rail professionals.

Young engineers will complete a structured career and self-development programme under the Amey Apprenticeship Academy scheme.

This includes studying towards recognised professional qualifications, completing work placements, on-the-job training and achieving the Gold Duke of Edinburgh’s Award.

Mel Ewell, Chief Executive of Amey said: “We are extremely proud to launch the Amey Apprenticeship Academy and invest in young people, particularly at a time of economic uncertainty.

“The programme is designed specifically to help young people negotiate an extremely tough jobs market and learn practical skills that will give them real, long term career prospects.

“It is fitting that we launched the Amey Apprenticeship Academy in the West Midlands, which despite having one of the highest youth unemployment rates in the UK, also has a pool of incredibly talented young people. We look forward to supporting the apprentices throughout their careers which will drive investment into the communities we work in.”

Steve Featherstone, Director of infrastructure maintenance for Network Rail, said: “Any effort to boost the skills of those who help deliver a better, value-for-money railway is good news for everyone. We know from our own apprenticeship scheme and focus on training for our people, how valuable investing for the future can be.”

Amey’s new apprentices will be working on some of the country’s key infrastructure schemes including:

• CEFA – a national, £200m scheme to examine every single bridge, tunnel and signal box belonging to Network Rail.

• The £2.7 bn Birmingham Highways PFI where Amey is delivering the contract to manage and maintain highways in the city.