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- Tasks: Become a Trainee Train Driver, mastering safety and customer service skills.
- Company: Join Northern, a leading train operator committed to exceptional training and career growth.
- Benefits: Enjoy comprehensive training, flexible shifts, and the chance to build a rewarding career.
- Why this job: This role offers hands-on experience, a supportive culture, and the opportunity to make a difference.
- Qualifications: Must be 20+, with GCSE grade C or above in Maths and English, or equivalent.
- Other info: Candidates must live within a 45-minute drive and be flexible with shift patterns.
We look for exceptional candidates to join our apprenticeship schemes. Our trainee drivers need to be self-disciplined, and able to work within rules and regulations. They need to be calm even under pressure, focused, vigilant, punctual, and reliable, with a genuine willingness to learn new skills and adapt to change.
We ask a lot of our apprentices, but we offer exceptional training and career prospects in return. Our driving apprenticeships begin with an intensive three-month training period, covering the key aspects of safety, operations, and driver responsibilities. We also train you to offer exceptional customer service and equip you to respond to the challenges of this rewarding career.
You will need a good level of numeracy and literacy, so will hold GCSE grade C or above in Maths and English (or equivalent), or sit a functional skills test and achieve a level 2 in English, Maths, and ICT, before you take the end-point assessment at the end of your apprenticeship.
Candidates need to be flexible enough to work shifts from the early hours of the morning until late at night, at weekends, and on Bank Holidays, and to be able to get to work for early and late shifts without relying on public transport. This means living within a 45-minute car journey from their place of work.
To apply for a place on Northern's Driver Apprenticeship Scheme, you should:
- be at least 20 years of age
- not have defective colour vision
- not have failed the Train Driver assessment within the last six months
- not have failed the Train Driver assessment twice before
Our Trainee Train Driver recruitment process consists of an interview with Northern's Driver Management Team, based in Leeds. Successful candidates will then be invited to take the RSSB Train Driver Psychometric Assessments, which must be passed to an enhanced standard, followed by a safety-critical medical that includes a drug and alcohol screen.
Northern has its own in-house Assessment Centre in Leeds, which facilitates Driver Psychometric Assessments for candidates who have applied for Trainee Train Driver roles and who have passed the initial selection stages. The process is designed to identify candidates who match the requirements of the job in terms of aptitude, safety, and behavioural preferences.
To find out more about the latest Train Driver Apprenticeship standard, please visit the Institute for Apprenticeships and Technical Education.
Trainee Train Driver (Apprentice) employer: Best Apprenticeships
Contact Detail:
Best Apprenticeships Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Trainee Train Driver (Apprentice)
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the key responsibilities of a train driver. Understanding safety protocols and operational procedures will not only help you during the interview but also demonstrate your genuine interest in the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your numeracy and literacy skills, especially if you need to take a functional skills test. Brush up on basic maths and English to ensure you're confident and ready to meet the requirements before the end-point assessment.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for the psychometric assessments by researching common types of tests used in the industry. There are plenty of online resources and practice tests available that can help you get familiar with the format and types of questions.
✨Tip Number 4
Make sure you have a reliable plan for getting to work, especially for early or late shifts. Consider your transport options and ensure you can reach your workplace within the required time frame, as this is crucial for the role.
We think you need these skills to ace Trainee Train Driver (Apprentice)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure you fully understand the responsibilities and requirements of a Trainee Train Driver. Familiarise yourself with the skills needed, such as self-discipline, punctuality, and the ability to work under pressure.
Tailor Your CV: Craft your CV to highlight relevant experiences and skills that align with the job description. Emphasise any previous roles or training that demonstrate your reliability, customer service skills, and ability to adapt to change.
Write a Strong Cover Letter: Your cover letter should express your enthusiasm for the apprenticeship and explain why you are a suitable candidate. Mention your willingness to learn and adapt, and how your background meets the specific requirements outlined in the job description.
Prepare for the Interview: Research common interview questions for trainee drivers and prepare your answers. Be ready to discuss your understanding of safety regulations, your approach to customer service, and how you handle stressful situations.
How to prepare for a job interview at Best Apprenticeships
✨Show Your Commitment to Safety
As a trainee train driver, safety is paramount. Be prepared to discuss your understanding of safety protocols and how you would prioritise safety in your role. Demonstrating a strong commitment to safety will impress the interviewers.
✨Demonstrate Your Ability to Work Under Pressure
Train driving can be stressful, so it's important to show that you can remain calm and focused under pressure. Prepare examples from your past experiences where you've successfully managed stressful situations.
✨Highlight Your Willingness to Learn
The apprenticeship is all about learning new skills. Make sure to express your eagerness to learn and adapt. Share specific instances where you've quickly picked up new skills or adapted to changes in your previous roles.
✨Be Punctual and Reliable
Punctuality is crucial in this role. Arrive at the interview on time and convey your understanding of the importance of being reliable, especially when working shifts. This will reflect your suitability for the job.
