TPE & PQA Drivers

[Ando80]

Hi everyone, first time poster but a long time lurker here. I’m a PQA driver at a firstgroup TOC having qualified approx 9 months ago and I’m thinking of applying for a qualified driver role at Transpennine Express. Is there any TPE drivers out there who know whether TPE consider applications from PQA drivers?

Do you know of any PQA drivers that have recently joined/transferred internally to TPE from another firstgroup TOC? Or even drivers that’ve joined from any other TOC outside of firstgroup when within the PQA period?

 

[fabs]

Yes. But depending on your career history it is likely your current employer have taken a punt on you and paid a lot for your training. How long would you stay at TPE? Be prepared for potential questions about loyalty.

 

[43066]

Yes. But depending on your career history it is likely your current employer have taken a punt on you and paid a lot for your training. How long would you stay at TPE? Be prepared for potential questions about loyalty.

Won’t happen! Nobody cares about loyalty, least of all TOCs.

The OP’s biggest issue might be being a little light on experience. It seems many TOCs like to see two to three years’ driving experience, preferably with a clean record. That said there’s no hard and fast rule. It all depends on the number/quality of applicants they get, how desperate they are etc.

OP I’d put in for it. Even if you don’t get through this time, you will have shown interest, and that can only go in your favour if you apply again over the next couple of years. It will be good experience, and you have nothing to lose!

 

[Gekko5154]

There was a driver at my old depot who was in his first year and got a job with TPE.

 

[FastTrax]

sorry what is PQA driver?

 

[43066]

sorry what is PQA driver?

PQA = “post qualified assessment”.

It’s the period when you’re a “new” driver, and subject to more downloads/ride outs than experienced colleagues. Some TOCs also pay less during the PQA period.

 

[Wireman]

I had less time PQA and got a job with TPE

 

[Aivilo]

Make sure there isn't a buy out clause in your contract

 

[FastTrax]

PQA = “post qualified assessment”.

It’s the period when you’re a “new” driver, and subject to more downloads/ride outs than experienced colleagues. Some TOCs also pay less during the PQA period.

Thnx

 

[2L70]

Good chance while they’re losing Qualifieds to other TOCs. I know some who have gone from Northern to TPE quick.

 

[387star]

I know two thameslink drivers went over in their first year of driving

 

[notadriver]

They are already in first group and going to a another first group TOC. Might be noticed ?