The RailStaff Awards 2024

Bob Bryce

Govia Thameslink Railway Limited

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Nominations for Apprentice of the Year

Mark Smith

Said the following about Bob Bryce:

“Bob Bryce, Luton based Passenger Host Team Leader for Govia Thameslink railway, completed an NVQ level 3 apprenticeship course at the tender age of 76 years, becoming an inspiration for others throughout the World!

The course he undertook involved producing some project work, task analysis and initially Mathematics and English tests, all of which Bob passed despite leaving school over 60 years ago.

The course also helped Bob hone his skills in terms of leading his colleagues, it has helped him analyse how to deal with different situations and also attune his way of working to the 3 pillars of GTR's business:

Brilliant Basics - making sure that his team does everything well on a day to day basis

Stronger Partnerships - developing an even stronger relationship with stakeholders including Network Rail, British Transport Police, local transport user groups as well as other colleagues within GTR.

Shifting Perceptions - Bob has successfully lead the team through a number of changes including a new revenue protection strategy and smarter ways of working.

The course helped Bob apply a disciplined and hardworking approach and whilst he sought advice from colleagues during his study period he was extremely conscientious in his approach to the work, resulting in a merit award at the end of his apprenticeship.

As Bob came near to completing the course it became apparent that he was the country's oldest apprentice, which generated a vast amount of media interest, initially during National Apprenticeship Week.

Bob was eventually interviewed by 19 different news organisations including Sky, BBC World Service and Steph's Packed Lunch on Channel 4.

His motto throughout his many media appearances was "never give up" and I believe this has been an inspirational message for thousands of people across the UK and of course the rail network.

Scott Milne- Head of On-Board & Rail Enforcement for Thameslink & Great Northern said "Bob's story is truly inspirational, he has shown that self-improvement and development is a lifelong journey. We are incredibly proud of his commitment, dedication and his hard work- not only in achieving the qualification itself, but also managing to do so with a Merit. Well done Bob!"“