Hi, I’m 18 just finished a BTEC in Protective Service and want to train as a train driver. How do I do it please? Mili

Hi Mili,

My advice would be to register for job alerts on the careers site for train driver positions - you will need to look out for those advertised as trainee roles. Candidates that successfully make it through all of the recruitment stages will then be placed in a talent pool, and will be made an offer of employment when a role becomes available. They will then join the training school and receive all of the necessary training to become a train driver - this typically takes 12-18 months.

However, despite the recent legal minimum age change for train driving, unfortunately at this moment in time we are not yet in a position to accept applications from candidates below the age of 20. This is because there are a number of activities that still have to happen first, such as updating the psychometric assessments. I wouldn't expect anything to change in that regard until at least next year.

The only other minimum requirements are as follows:

• You'll need to live within 60 minutes travel time to the depot, without using public transport when it is not available. The safety responsibilities make this requirement a necessity
• You will be needed to work shifts of varying start times, including weekends and nights
• You'll need to pass a full driver medical which includes hearing, sight, and colour vision tests (using the Ishihara plates).

I hope that helps.