Everything You Need to Know About the Train Driver Apprenticeship [Level 3]
The train driver apprenticeship [Level 3] is a terrific way to get started out in the railway sector. It will allow you to get involved in various different areas of work in the rail industry. As many of the skills are transferable, this apprenticeship could lead to jobs in senior management. If this interests you, carry on reading for more information.
Role Overview
Train drivers are responsible for driving trains across a variety of routes in a safe, timely, and economical manner while adhering to all relevant rail regulations and policies. They are also responsible for all passengers, staff and goods on the train. A train driver could work in a number of rail environments: high speed, passenger, freight, underground, metro, suburban and many more.
Furthermore, they should also be able to maintain a high level of concentration and make split-second, complicated decisions under both normal and challenging circumstances, such as inclement weather, infrastructure breakdowns, and emergency situations.
This role requires strong communication skills as you’ll be effectively communicating with stakeholders. You may also have to supervise others – this is done in order to enable compliance with regulations through safe and effective rail operation.
In addition, train drivers don’t have a set work hours. They should be flexible and adaptable as they could be required to work for extended periods of time alone, with shifts that include weekends, evenings and nights. For example, on freight or engineering trains, train drivers usually tend to be rostered more night shifts. On long-distance routes, there may be a need for overnight stays.
Here are some key responsibilities you will have as a train driver:
- communicating with: the signaller, crossing attendant, operations control, other rail industry personnel or the British Transport and the civilian police
- ensuring the train is functioning well to enter into service
- driving safely and in a timely manner
- staying up to date with route features
- remaining calm due to changing conditions
- following correct protocol consistently throughout the duration of the journey
- Dealing with customer enquiries promptly, politely and in the correct manner
Duration & Qualifications
This apprenticeship typically lasts between 12-18 months.
Apprentices need Level 2 English, Maths and ICT qualifications for this apprenticeship. Those without the qualifications need to achieve this prior to taking the end-point assessment.
Entry Requirements
- Employers must meet minimum requirements set by the Train Driving Licences and Certificates Regulations 2010
- Candidates must meet medical standards of physical health set out within the above regulations
- Candidates must be at least 18 years old for this apprenticeship
Train Driver Apprenticeship Competencies
The Level 3 Train Driver Apprenticeship consists of specific competencies that you will need to meet in order to pass the apprenticeship. I have outlined a few of these below:
Safety
A good understanding of relevant health and safety legislation, statutory operating regulations within own role and organisation and how to monitor it.
You will be able to continuously monitor area of responsibility to ensure compliance with rail legislation and organisational procedures. You will also have an overall responsibility of passengers, staff and goods to enable compliance with regulations through safe and effective rail operation.
Communication
Knowledge and understanding of procedures and methods, to ensure the transfer of information to different stakeholders e.g., using report forms, phonetic alphabet, codes and numbering.
You will be able to effectively carry out verbal communications, face to face and by using written methods and procedures e.g., using the PA system or train radio.
Security
Requirements and process for ensuring rail safety and security on the line, trains, stations and at depots. E.g. evacuation points.
You will be able to constantly maintain a secure environment and respond to security issues. In the event of a security breach, you will take appropriate action and review the effectiveness of methods and actions taken. For example, safe systems of work, closing gates and doors when entering secured premises, securing cab doors when leaving trains on main lines and stations.
Health and Wellbeing
Understand the risk of ill health and the impact of wellbeing on the safety of an individual, others at work and the public. Understanding strategies for fatigue management. For example, sleep quality and environment, healthy lifestyle, diet, time and stress management.
You will be able to manage your own fitness and lifestyle to ensure work is carried out competently.
Career Progression
Upon successfully completing this apprenticeship, you can progress to a number of different roles. This includes train driver instructor, train driver manager, depot driver team leader, depot delivery co-ordinator.
To conclude, that’s everything you need to know about the Level 3 Train Driver Apprenticeship. If this apprenticeship sounds like it’s for you, take a look at our open roles or continue browsing our website to see what else might interest you.
