Southeastern has been recognised for its dedication to workplace learning, earning Platinum membership from The 5% Club for its efforts in championing apprenticeships and skills development across the rail industry.

The award highlights Southeastern’s ongoing commitment to creating opportunities for employees to earn and learn through apprenticeships and graduate schemes. Currently, 10% of its workforce is undertaking qualifications designed to help young people and existing staff build rewarding careers in rail.

This latest recognition follows the company’s recent success in The Sunday Times Top 100 Apprenticeship Employers for 2025, where Southeastern climbed 34 places to rank 24th overall—the highest-placed transport or rail company on the list.

Earlier this year, Southeastern also launched Connect 38, a new careers and skills hub located near Ashford railway station, designed to support development and training within the organisation.

Sarah Jones, Apprenticeship Manager at Southeastern, said:

“We work hard to create a range of opportunities for both existing staff and young people looking to begin a career in the railway and we pride ourselves on offering a broad range of apprenticeships, from covering subjects such as onboard, train driving, engineering and management development. Apprenticeships are great option for anyone at any point in their career, to help them take that next step or change into a new role. Our colleagues and our customers feel the benefit of our dedication to continued learning and improvement. This recognition shows how committed we are to developing talent and building a skilled workforce that keeps our region moving.”

The 5% Club partners with organisations across the UK to help tackle skills shortages and promote youth employment. Southeastern joins over 1,200 employers supporting more than two million employees, including 121,000 individuals in structured learning programmes.

This Platinum accolade follows three consecutive years of Gold membership for Southeastern, marking a significant step forward in its long-term investment in training and development.

Mark Cameron OBE, Chief Executive at The 5% Club, said:

“We are incredibly proud of the outstanding employers, like Southeastern who continue to raise the bar for workplace learning. Their dedication to creating rich and varied 'earn and learn' opportunities sets a remarkable example. By achieving Platinum membership, Southeastern has demonstrated an exceptional commitment to investing in people — shaping the skills of tomorrow and driving lasting impact for both business and society.”

Image: Southeastern