If ur someone who enjoys responsibility and wants to work in a fast-paced environment, a Train Driver Apprenticeship could be the perfect career for you. As a Train Driver, you’ll play a key role in transporting people and goods safely and efficiently, working independently, and as part of a wider team.
Take our Career Match to see if a Train Driver Apprenticeship is the right role for you.
What is a Train Driver Apprenticeship?
A Train Driver Apprenticeship is a combination of hands-on experience and academic learning, equipping you with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in the role.
As a Train Driver Apprentice, you’ll work closely with experienced train drivers who’ll guide and mentor you throughout ur journey. You’ll also have support from ur training provider to ensure you get the most out of ur apprenticeship.
The transport sector is a constantly growing and developing industry, allowing you to gain new skills and experience throughout ur career. If you want more information on apprenticeships, we ca give you a full breakdown on them! View our live Train Driver roles, here.
Day-to-Day Role of a Train Driver Apprentice
As a Train Driver Apprentice, you can start as a rail passenger assistant or train conductor, then progress and apply for a trainee driver post. This is a highly-rewarding, diverse career and the typical Train Driver Apprentice duties include:
• Performing maintenance checks to ensure the train is fit for service.
• Learning the mechanics and operations of a train.
• Understanding and following route features and how to react to changing conditions.
• Following the correct protocol throughout the duration of the train’s journey.
• Serving the general public, responding to enquiries promptly and politely.
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What are the Benefits of a Train Driver Apprenticeship?
There are several benefits becoming a Train Driver, including:
• Competitive Salary: As a Train Driver apprentice, you can earn a salary whilst you develop ur skills.
• Flexible Working: You can opt for shift-work patterns, take on overtime, and most rail companies offer a 4-day working week.
• Rail Benefits: You can benefit from discounted travel, free travel, and excellent pension schemes.
What Personality Traits Do I Need for a Train Driver Apprenticeship?
A few personality traits you need to succeed in a Train Driver Apprenticeship:
• Adaptability and focus.
• People-oriented.
• Risk aware and remaining calm under pressure.
• Eager to learn new skills.
• Preference for a hands-on role that requires travelling to different areas of the UK on a daily basis.
If you think you have any of these working traits, take our Career Match and see if ur a good match for a Train Driver.
If ur not sure if this is right for you, check out the other apprenticeships we have available and if you think you’d be better suited to an entry-level job, you can learn all about them here.
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Future Career Opportunities After a Train Driver Apprenticeship
Following the completion of ur Train Driver Apprenticeship, you could go on to becoming a:
• Trainee Driver Instructor
• Train Driver Manager
• Operations Manager
• Passenger, Freight, or Engineering Train Driver
• Depot Delivery Co-Ordinator
Train Driver Apprenticeships: Frequently Asked Questions
What qualifications do I need to do a Train Driver Apprenticeship?
Most employers ask for a minimum of:
• GCSEs (or equivalent) at grade 4 (C) or higher in Maths and English.
• Some may require additional qualifications, such as Level 2 qualification in a related field (e.g., Transport or Engineering).
How do I apply for a Train Driver Apprenticeship?
You can apply for a Train Driver Apprenticeship via the urfuture app; we work with some of the UK’s biggest apprenticeship providers including Remit Training and BPP.
Before you apply for our live roles, complete ur Career Match to see which sectors and specific roles would be best suited for ur personality.
Are there any Train Driver Apprenticeships near me?
Train Driver Apprenticeships in the UK are available across various cities, including Manchester, Bristol, and Newcastle.
How long does a Train Driver Apprenticeship take to complete?
Typically, a Train Driver Apprenticeship takes between 12 – 18 months to complete, depending on the train operating company and specific training programme.
How much can I earn doing a Train Driver Apprenticeship?
As an apprentice, you’ll earn at least the Apprenticeship Minimum Wage in ur first year, rising to the National Minimum Wage for ur age group following that.
However, depending on ur employer, you may receive over £20,000 per year from ur first year. Take a look at the live roles on the urfuture app along with their salaries, benefits, and specific requirements.
Do I have to pay for my Train Driver Apprenticeship training?
No, apprentices aren’t required to pay for their apprenticeship training. The cost of ur Train Driver Apprenticeship is covered by the government and ur employer.