CIRO marks milestone year with special Jubilee celebrations
In 2025, the Chartered Institution of Railway Operators (CIRO) celebrates a landmark achievement – its 25th anniversary. This Jubilee Year is not only a celebration of CIRO’s illustrious history but also an opportunity to reflect on its contributions to the rail operations profession, honour the individuals who have driven its success, and envision a future aligned with its mission:
To lead, inspire and accelerate the growth of rail professionals, cultivating collaboration to support the success of rail organisations, now and in the future.
Established in 2000, CIRO has evolved from an innovative idea into an internationally respected professional body, now serving over 12,000 members. With a strong emphasis on education, innovation, and collaboration, it has established itself as a pillar of professional development in railway operations.
A Legacy of Excellence
Founded initially as the Institution of Railway Operators, CIRO was created to standardise best practices in railway operations during a transformative time for the UK rail industry. The Institution’s growth has been marked by pivotal moments, including achieving Chartered status in 2021 – a milestone that elevated CIRO’s standing within the profession and provided members with prestigious professional recognition.
Now as an awarding organisation, CIRO is able to collaborate with rail employers to develop endorsed programmes of learning tailored to their training schemes. These partnerships ensure that CIRO’s offerings meet the practical and strategic needs of the rail industry. CIRO delivers the Level 3 Team Leader, Level 4 Operations Manager, and Level 5 Operations or Departmental Manager apprenticeship standards, while also serving as an End-Point Assessment Organisation (EPAO) approved by OFQUAL for the Train Driver Level 3 standard.
In late 2025, CIRO expanded its End-Point Assessment (EPA) services, after gaining Ofqual approval to expand its scope of recognition to include two additional apprenticeship standards. Building on its established role as an Ofqual-approved End-Point Assessment Organisation (EPAO) for the Train Driver Standard (ST0645), CIRO will now assess apprentices pursuing the Level 3 Rail Infrastructure Operator (ST1378) and Level 3 Transport Scheduler (ST1438) standards.
Alongside its apprenticeship standards, CIRO has long provided academic pathways through its certificate, diploma, and degree courses. Demonstrating its ongoing commitment to delivering relevant training and development for the rail industry’s evolving needs, CIRO recently launched the CIRO Connect programme and introduced a rail-specific Senior Leader MBA.
2025: A Year of Celebrations
This milestone year will be celebrated through a series of events and activities that honour CIRO’s legacy and its aspirations for the future. Many of these celebrations will align with the Railway 200 campaign, which commemorates two centuries of rail transport in the UK. This dual celebration will reflect on the transformative impact of railways and explore the next stage of evolution in parallel with ongoing industry reforms under the government’s Plan for Rail and the establishment of Great British Railways (GBR).
Highlights of CIRO’s Jubilee Year include:
- Members’ Celebration Event: On the 11th June 2025, CIRO will host a special gathering to bring together the people who matter most to CIRO – its members. This event will celebrate the milestone, provide an opportunity for members to share their experiences, and reflect on the Institution’s impact over the years.
- Collaborative Industry Events: Bringing together leaders and professionals to discuss the future of railway operations in the context of GBR reforms and technological innovation.
- Limited Edition Commemorative Items: Exclusive items for CIRO members, incorporating specially commissioned artwork that celebrates key milestones from the past 25 years.
- Member Showcases: Stories from members whose professional journeys have been shaped by CIRO and who, in turn, have contributed to the growth of the rail industry.
Additional dates and details for special celebratory events and activities will be announced throughout the year. Stay connected with CIRO’s updates and be part of this milestone celebration in the institution’s history.
Looking Ahead
As CIRO celebrates its Silver Jubilee, the focus is not only on its achievements but also on the road ahead. Under the leadership of Philip Sherratt, appointed CEO in 2025, CIRO aims to build on its legacy by expanding its educational offerings, supporting industry-wide reforms, and driving innovation.
Phil commented:
“As we celebrate 25 years of CIRO, we reflect on the incredible journey that has shaped us into the leading professional body for railway operations. This anniversary is not just about looking back—it’s about looking forward. CIRO remains committed to supporting the rail industry by developing skilled professionals, fostering collaboration, and driving innovation. I invite all our members and industry partners to join us in celebrating our achievements and shaping the future of railway operations together.”
CIRO’s vision for the next 25 years is rooted in its commitment to advancing railway operations through collaboration and knowledge-sharing. As the rail industry evolves, CIRO will continue to play a pivotal role in equipping professionals with the skills and qualifications needed to meet future challenges.
Join the Celebrations
CIRO invites its members, stakeholders, and the wider rail community to participate in this momentous year of celebrations. Together, we look forward to honouring the past, celebrating the present, and shaping the future of railway operations.
