Apprenticeship Questions

[alex888]

Hi guys and girls, does anyone know what Train companies freight or passenger use apprenticeships for hiring drivers? For example do DB? is there an age limit or any other limitations for the apprentice role? I have been offered to take my second test at DB again as I failed the first one so I was thinking an apprentice role could be a better chance that's all. Thanks in advance.

 

[Marshy]

Most train companies (mainly passenger) seem to use apprenticeships now. There is no age limit but some may require you to have GCSE's grade 4/C and above in English, Maths and sometimes ICT, or you will be expected to pass to the required level during your training.

Regarding having a 2nd chance, it makes no difference if you apply to a TOC/FOC that requires you to do an apprenticeship or not. The 2 lives will remain the same across the board.

Hope that helps.

 

[ALPAL]

The only official age limit is on the lower end, with most saying you need to be 20.5 years old at time of application as drivers need to be 21+. Above that age the only caveat is being able to pass a medical and the entry tests which probably won’t be possible if you’re 75 years old.

Getting onto the apprenticeship is not easier than any other route into driving, it’s the exact same assessments and pass mark as non-apprentice routes. It’s not really a traditional apprenticeship in the sense that they’d take on a “lower calibre” (can’t think of a better term, don’t mean offence by that!) employee and train them up to the standard - they still only take on people who can pass all the assessments to a high level and then train them just the same as any other train driver.

Be aware that if you’ve failed once you only have one more chance, so only sit the tests if you’re absolutely confident you can pass or you’re confident you’re as ready as possible.

 

[Terry844]

From what I have seen on this forum and heard from others, apprenticeship is not another way into the role. It is just a name change from trainee but with a few more requirements on entry and while training.