Become a Train Driver with Avanti West Coast

I joined the railway over 3 years ago and driving a train was not something I’d previously thought about. But, during my apprenticeship course with the business, we were introduced to different roles and I thought – I quite fancy that! I love driving cars, so why not try a train. There was also the added bonus of a great salary; it can really change you and your family’s life. There’s a lot of responsibility being a Train Driver and I was excited by that challenge. Initially, I didn’t think I’d pass the recruitment process, but as soon as I had a chance I gave it a go and was successful.

Firstly, you need to be sure you can work shifts and you’re happy in your own company. It may seem daunting at first with everything to learn, but every person from my trainers, instructors, mentors, driver managers and fellow drivers have been nothing but supportive and are there to help get you through the course. I’ve had nothing but a positive experience so far – so go for it! There are points you think How am I going to learn all of this? but you do and if you’re struggling you can ask anyone for help.

I’m used to working shifts, so enjoy the freedom it gives you. I’m also fortunate to have a very supportive family who help with childcare and allow me to do this job. Each week is different and it’s good fun having days off during the week. There are times when you have to go to bed at a certain time, if you’re up early, to make sure you are well rested. That can be tough at certain times of the year. But, you eventually find your own routine which works and it doesn’t take long to adjust.

It was quite hard going back into the classroom for 16 weeks, learning all about the train and what to do when things go wrong. Just training your brain to take in lots of information was difficult, but in time it started to stick. By taking each day as it comes, I find it easier to digest all of the information – and there’s a lot! So try to not get too overwhelmed and break it into chunks. As time goes on, you realise you can learn it all and it’s amazing how much you can retain. The 3am starts can be tough at first, but they’re not every day and it’s all about getting into a good routine to make sure you get enough rest between shifts.

The training course can be intense at times. There’s a lot to learn in the first 16 weeks and you have regular assessments, reviews, workbooks and logbooks to keep on top of. It seems like a lot, but the trainers are fantastic. They know so much and guide you through every step. If you don’t understand something, they’ll help in every possible way until you do. Your fellow colleagues on the course are also a great support; revision sessions before assessments are a must as anything you might need clarifying can be discussed and this has always helped me a lot. Make sure to keep on top of your workbooks as they’re also a great revision guide for reviews and assessments. Once you complete the 16-week course, you then start the practical side of learning how to drive a train. The instructors and mentors are brilliant, they talk you through the process of moving the train and as time goes on, they trust you to do things on your own. It not only builds your confidence, but it also means they’re confident in your ability. So, yes – the training is intense but also great fun. Especially when you do your first journey and you think I just drove that train!

1. Fill out your application
2. Complete an online questionnaire
3. Online assessments – Situational Judgement Test & Visual Search Exercise
4. Assessment stage 1 – In person tests (paper-based test)
5. Assessment stage 2 – In person tests (computer-based tests and CBI)
6. Driver Manager interview

We will usually recruit once or twice per year. We receive a lot of applications, so sometimes roles will only be open for as little as a day. We recommend getting your application in as quickly as possible to ensure you don’t miss out.

If successful, you will enter into a talent bank and wait to be allocated a course from there. Once you have been allocated a course you’ll be sent a contract and you will be booked in for a Train Driver medical. All offers are subject to passing this medical.

When you join you’ll go straight onto an intensive training programme giving you all the skills that you need to be a great Train Driver. The training is made up of classroom-based learning, practical experience in the driving cab, as well as independent learning. The training is intensive, and you need to be prepared to put in the necessary hours.

The great thing about the role of Train Driver is that you don’t need previous rail experience or qualifications. Train Drivers come from all walks of life; from teachers to shop workers and paramedics to stay-at-home parents. It isn’t so much about the experience, but more about your capability to do the role and pass the process.

Firstly, the fact you’re interested is music to our ears; don’t let the competitive nature of recruitment process put you off. There are a few things that you can do to prepare yourself, such as first and most importantly researching the role. Have a think about why you want to be a Trainee Driver and the qualities you have that would make you suited to the role. Whilst thinking about the role, take some time to consider how you would manage the shift patterns, working by yourself for long periods of time and the need to study. Getting your head around the practicalities of the role is really important and will stand you in good stead with the process.

It is also worth considering some of the essentials such as attention to detail, speed/accuracy, hazard perception start thinking about how you can prepare yourself as these will come up through the assessment process.