When Sarah Webb, an Operations Interface Manager at Network Rail, first heard about the CIRO Diploma of Higher Education in Railway Operations Management, it was a revelation. Despite years of hands-on experience in operations, Sarah knew she needed to develop a broader understanding of the railway industry to progress her career and open new opportunities.
“I hadn’t really heard about the course before,” Sarah explains, “but I wanted to do something that would help develop my skills in different areas of the business. If I wanted to apply for other jobs in the future, I needed that wider perspective.”
The CIRO Diploma is a two-year, work based programme designed for working professionals looking to deepen their industry knowledge and gain formal academic recognition. It covers a range of critical topics across railway operations, including system thinking, planning and timetabling, safety management, regulation, and leadership, all rooted in real-world application.
For Sarah, who hadn’t undertaken formal education in over 20 years, stepping back into study was a significant leap of faith.
“We’re all very self-critical, and putting yourself back into a learning environment after 20 years is daunting. But completing the course has made me realise what I can do.”
Each module begins with a classroom based open day, allowing learners to meet their tutors, understand the module content, and connect with fellow students, setting the tone for a supportive and engaging learning experience.
“Those first sessions were so helpful,” says Sarah. “You got to know your tutor and what was expected from you. It made the rest of the module more approachable.”
Studying while working full-time is challenging, but Sarah’s journey was even more remarkable. During the course, she got married, moved house, became pregnant, and welcomed her baby into the world.
“There were days that I struggled, absolutely. But the reward of completing it, honestly, it’s so worth it. You can do it while life is happening, you just need to prioritise some time every week and not leave things until the last minute.”
One of the major strengths of the CIRO Diploma is the extensive support network available throughout the programme, from knowledgeable tutors to online resources and a community of fellow professionals.
“There is so much support, you just need to use it. Don’t wait until the end. Reach out to your tutors, because they’re incredibly knowledgeable and genuinely want to help.”
Completing the diploma didn’t just give Sarah a new qualification, it reshaped how she saw herself and her potential.
“I didn’t think I’d ever complete any training or learn anything new again, but now, I’ve applied to go on and do the degree course. That’s how much this has changed how I see myself.”
Sarah is now progressing onto the CIRO Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Railway Operations Management, a natural next step for Diploma graduates. This degree-level programme builds on the core foundations of the diploma with advanced modules in rail economics, innovation, strategic planning, performance, and sustainability. It’s designed to develop future leaders in the rail industry, equipping professionals with the tools to shape strategy, influence policy, and drive system-wide improvements.
Her advice to others who may be considering applying?
“Just go for it. Even if you start with the one-year certificate and decide it’s not for you, you’ve still achieved something valuable. There’s so much support and guidance; you really won’t regret it.”
Ready to invest in your future like Sarah did?
The CIRO Diploma of Higher Education in Railway Operations Management is open for applications now but act quickly. Applications close in mid-August and spaces are limited. Whether you’re looking to deepen your expertise, grow your confidence, or step up to new roles in the rail industry, this programme is your gateway to professional transformation.
Apply now at: www.ciro.org/diploma-of-higher-education-in-railway-operations-management
