Our Azuma launch continues full steam ahead and we're on the hunt for a new generation of Drivers to join the team at our Newcastle depot (We anticipate that there may be future recruitment for our other depots into 2021 so please keep an eye on our careers website if interested in applying for other locations). This is an exciting opportunity that doesn't come around very often, so if you're interested in training to become a Driver now is the time. As a highly sought-after role and one of great responsibility, it is important that we have a thorough selection process. We know this makes it a lengthy process for our candidates, so before you click that ‘apply' button, take a look at the requirements of the role and the steps that will follow, to make sure you are fully prepared.

What will you do as an Apprentice Driver?

If you're successful, it will be back to school on an intensive training programme designed to give you the foundations to become a professional Qualified Train Driver. This will take around 52 weeks to complete, so you will need to be aware that this fantastic opportunity comes with a lot of commitment

You'll need to be committed to studying, as the first 16 weeks will involve classroom-based learning, including homework! Our expert team of trainers will be on hand to show you the ropes and ensure you are gaining all the knowledge required and will support and coach you through the course. You'll be assessed along the way as you get closer on your journey to becoming a Train Driver.

When you have completed the theory-based element and passed your assessments, you'll then be out driving a train on our network with real customers on board. No pressure! Don't worry though, you will be guided by an experienced Driver Trainer, who will teach you how to apply your learning into the practical element of driving, embedding non-technical skills into your everyday working life.

We are pleased to announce that the Driver Training will become professionalised through the awarding of a Level 3 qualification. This will allow us to further enhance our driver training by building on best practice in the sector via the Drivers Academy and reinvest apprenticeship levy funding into the training. Therefore successful candidates are likely to be offered the role as an apprenticeship opportunity.

As an Apprentice Driver you'll be involved in the following;

• Ensuring that you work to the best of your ability during the intensive training period.
• Studying for and passing all relevant assessments which contribute to becoming a Qualified Train Driver
• Delivering the highest standards of operational and occupational safety at all times.
• Preparing, driving and disposing of trains and traction units safely, ensuring the correct processes and procedures are rigorously followed.
• Ensuring all communication is carried out in accordance with industry and LNER standards.
• Building and maintaining productive and professional relationships with colleagues across the business.
• Locating and rectifying where possible or reporting defective equipment safe on the train and liaising with the LNER Control team to ensure the safe working of trains.
• Providing excellent customer service by ensuring a safe and punctual service for both customers and colleagues.

Does this sound like the opportunity for you? There are few must haves…

To be considered for our Apprentice Driver position you will need to be able to demonstrate the following:

• Be over 20.5 years of age at time of application.
• Live within 1 hours drive of the location you are applying for at the time of application. Successful candidates will be responsible for making their own way to the depot, even when public transport is not available.
• That you haven't been unsuccessful at psychometric stage within the last six months with any TOC.
• Be able to work a variety of shifts including weekends and nights.
• Have A-C Maths and English or equivalent
• Have experience of working in a responsible role following set rules and procedures.
• Proven concentration skills and the ability to work alone for long periods of time.
• Be resilient and able to work under challenging situations without losing focus.
• Excellent professional communication skills appropriate in ensuring a safe environment
• A passion for providing a high standard of service for customers.
• Experience of being an effective team player.
• A willingness to learn new information, apply it in practice and be open to change.
• Be consistently punctual – vitally important in the role of Driver!

Take a look at https://thetraindriveracademy.com/ to find out more and hear some of current drivers
talk about the role and its requirements.

What to expect from the recruitment process?

Step 1. Application and Online Testing
As soon as you click on the ‘Apply' button you'll be asked to complete the application form which includes some personal details and uploading your CV. The application process will also involve some online tests. These tests are made up of behavioural and concentration tests, so we would advise that you find some time and a quiet space to complete them so that you aren't disturbed. Once you click ‘Start Now' you will need to complete that test to ensure a fair approach for all candidates.

Step 2. Telephone Interview
If successful at stage 1 you'll be invited to join us for a telephone interview. Just as with a face to face interview we recommend that you prepare in advance and find a quiet place to do the telephone interview where you won't be disturbed.

Step 3. Competency Based Interview
If successful at telephone interview, we'll invite you to attend an interview with our Driver Team Managers and a member of our People Resourcing team. Due to the current situation with Covid-19 these interviews are taking place on Microsoft Teams.

Step 4. Psychometric Testing
If successful at interview you'll be invited to attend psychometric testing which is conducted face to face. If you have already completed Driver psychometrics within the last five years, we'll simply check they are to our standard and you will skip this stage. If you have been unsuccessful within the last six months with any TOC, you'll unfortunately be unable to apply on this occasion. We anticipate that there will be further opportunities further down the line though, so watch this space.

Step 5. Medical
As always, there are strict medical standards to adhere to. Head to the RSSB website and look at RIS-3451-TOM to check you meet the standards.

Once you've checked you meet the minimum criteria, hit Apply now!

Please be aware that we are monitoring the ongoing situation with Covid-19, but this may result in delays to our recruitment processes. Please bear with us during this time. We will keep you updated where possible