Parallel Project Training Named APM Developmental Programme of the Year

Reading, Berkshire May 20, 2026 (EMWNews.com) – Parallel Project Training, a leading provider of professional project management training, in partnership with Network Rail, has won Developmental Programme of the Year at the 2026 APM Education & Research Awards.

This award recognises the impact of a pioneering collaboration between Parallel and Network Rail that is accelerating the development of the next generation of project leaders in the rail industry – and delivering measurable, lasting results.

In partnership, Network Rail and Parallel embedded a 15-week Project Management Development Programme into Network Rail’s Project Management Graduate Scheme to bridge the gap between project management theory and practice.

The programme uses real-world applications alongside mentoring by senior leaders to develop confident professionals who can apply project management best practice in one of the UK’s most complex operational environments.

It culminates in a “Dragons’ Den” style presentation, where graduate teams pitch delivery plans to senior rail leaders – testing not only technical competence, but collaboration, leadership and commercial thinking.

As Jeff Davies, Director – Rail Investment Centre of Excellence, commented:

“The Network Rail Project Management Graduate Programme represents continuous learning in action, reinventing itself to be relevant to the industry and the challenges presented.”

The judges of this prestigious APM award were particularly impressed by the Programme’s robust evaluation framework, which tracked the impact from learner experience through to organisational benefit.

Beyond individual outcomes, the Programme contributes to the wider profession. Graduates are also acting as ambassadors for the industry, engaging in STEM outreach, Women in Rail initiatives, and early careers engagement, helping to shape the future workforce.

Winning the Developmental Programme of the Year award reflects Parallel Project Training’s mission to create learning and development programmes that deliver real performance change – not just qualifications.

Matt Bolton, Business Development Director at Parallel Project Training, remarked: “We’re incredibly proud of this award, of the dedication and professionalism of our project management specialists and of every graduate who brought the programme to life through their commitment, curiosity and impact.”