One in four (26%) people who graduated from university in the last two years have turned down a job offer because they felt they were overqualified or the role wasn't appropriate for them. This startling figure is revealed as more than 25 companies across the rail sector, including Aberdeen based FirstGroup, have joined together for the first time to help up to 100 graduates get their careers on track by launching a new cross-industry, paid internship scheme.

The scheme, 'Track and Train', will provide an all-round industry experience over 18 months, where graduates will enjoy three, six-month placements: one at Network Rail and two at either a passenger or freight operator or another company within the rail sector. 'Track and Train' will target young people who have graduated in the last two years but owing to the tough economic times have found themselves either unemployed or more likely under-employed in a non-graduate level role.

The scheme, funded by Network Rail, involves 27 partner companies, including FirstGroup's passenger franchises: ScotRail; First Great Western; First Capital Connect; First TransPennine Express; and FirstGroup's open access operator, First Hull Trains.  

Tim O'Toole, Chief Executive of FirstGroup, said: "This is a fantastic initiative and I am very pleased that our rail companies are playing an important role.  'Track and Train' addresses the gap presented by our industry structure, which separates train operations from infrastructure management.  This program allows graduate trainees to appreciate how the 'whole machine' works, improving our effectiveness in developing the next generation of railway professionals."

Patrick Butcher, Network Rail's group finance director, responsible for the scheme, said: "We know that there are many smart, talented individuals out there that haven't had their break yet and as a growing industry we can work together to provide challenging, valuable and paid work experience to kick start their careers.

"What sets this scheme apart is those involved will work across the rail industry and by linking it all together, develop a fantastic knowledge and understanding of the challenges we all face and the opportunities for the future."

As thousands of young people start 2012 looking for meaningful work, Network Rail surveyed those who have graduated in the last two years and found: