Apprentice Driver

Overview

What will you do as an Apprentice Train Driver

This role is the start of a career that really goes places. Successful candidates join LNER on an intensive and well structured training programme designed to build the knowledge, skills and confidence needed to become a professional Qualified Train Driver. The programme takes around 52 weeks and combines learning, practice and support every step of the way. Training begins in the classroom, where the focus is on understanding how the railway works, how safety underpins every decision and how trains are operated day to day.

There is a lot to learn and plenty to get stuck into, including assessments and independent study. A dedicated team of trainers provides guidance, coaching and encouragement throughout, helping learning turn into real confidence. Once the theory stages are complete and assessments are passed, training moves out onto the railway with practical training involving driving trains on the LNER network with customers on board, supported closely by an experienced Driver Trainer.

There is a strong focus on communication, decision making and staying calm and focused in a live operational environment.

Driver training at LNER is enhanced through the award of a Level 3 qualification. This reflects best practice across the rail industry and supports continued investment in high quality training through the Drivers Academy. The apprenticeship standard is fully embedded within the training programme.

• Giving full commitment during the intensive training period
• Preparing for and passing all assessments required to qualify as a Train Driver
• Putting safety first in every task, every shift and every decision
• Preparing, driving and securing trains and traction units in line with strict processes and procedures
• Communicating clearly and professionally in line with industry and LNER standards
• Building strong and respectful working relationships across the business
• Identifying and reporting defects and working with LNER Control to support the safe running of services
• Playing a key part in delivering safe, punctual and reliable journeys for customers and colleagues

• Aged 20.5 or over at the time of application
• Living within a 60 minute drive of the depot and able to make independent travel arrangements, including when public transport is not available
• Have checked and confirmed your eligibility to undertake psychometrics with LNER as part of this process
• Flexibility to work a range of shifts including early starts, late finishes, nights and weekends
• Responsibility in a role where rules, procedures or standards mattered
• Sustained concentration and the ability to work independently for long periods
• Resilience and focus when under pressure or when things do not go to plan
• Clear and professional communication that supports a safe working environment
• A genuine commitment to delivering a high standard of service
• Effective teamwork and positive working relationships
• A positive attitude to learning, feedback and change
• Consistent punctuality, which is essential in a safety critical role

An apprenticeship with LNER offers more than a qualification. It is the start of a long term career on one of the UK's most iconic rail routes, connecting Edinburgh with major cities along the East Coast. LNER is proud of the support given to new drivers, the quality of its training and the strong sense of teamwork across depots. Many drivers progress into roles such as Driver Instructor, Driver Team Manager or wider operational leadership positions.

Alongside structured development, LNER offers competitive pay during training, free LNER travel, discounted rail travel for family and friends, a strong pension and access to wellbeing and support services.