Trainee Depot Driver East Midlands Trains

[LaursP]

I’ll try and keep you posted!

So how’s it going Dynamonic? Almost three weeks in- time is going so fast!

 

[James stallard]

I have my stage 1 testing on Friday, is anyone else on here going?
Also I have been reading various other threads about depot drivers and I just wondered if depot driver is EMT proving ground for mainline drivers. As I have read that if you get to the interview stage I shouldn't mention anything about wanting to be a mainline driver, as the depot management don't like it when people leave to the mainline.

 

[Dynamonic]

So how’s it going Dynamonic? Almost three weeks in- time is going so fast!

Hi there LaursP,

The course is going very well and is really good fun! Make no mistake though, it really does require a lot of hard work and dedication on your part!
From Day 1, it's straight down to business with Personal Track Safety (PTS) and your first assessment in this is quite literally on Day 2. (It's largely common sense though, and provided you pay attention and do your revision, it's quite simple. ) You'll get a couple of knowledge checks to complete a week (mainly after each module) to make sure that everything is going in, and to ensure you're keeping up to date with your learning.
So far, it's mainly classroom work (and it will be like this for the first 9 weeks), however we do get out and about a couple of times a week putting into practice what we've learned.
So far, we've had a couple of goes each on the HST simulator they have at the Academy, have tried our hand at coupling/uncoupling wagons and controlling shunting maneuvers with handsignals, and on Friday, had a little go at pulling off and braking in a Class 158.

It really is a great course so far, and definitely something you should be looking forward to!

I have my stage 1 testing on Friday, is anyone else on here going?
Also I have been reading various other threads about depot drivers and I just wondered if depot driver is EMT proving ground for mainline drivers. As I have read that if you get to the interview stage I shouldn't mention anything about wanting to be a mainline driver, as the depot management don't like it when people leave to the mainline.

Hi there James,

Various TOCs have their own policies regarding progression for Depot Drivers. In EMT's case, the Depot Driver grade is the starting stone to Mainline Driver, and all new trainee drivers start there!
Depot Drivers at EMT are given the full mainline driver rules course ready, and typically, after a few years working on the depot, can apply to have a place on a 'Depot Driver to Mainline Conversion Course' to begin their mainline career.
If you want to be a mainline driver for EMT, then the Trainee Depot Driver route is the way to go about it! Because of this, definitely don't be afraid to mention that you want to be a mainline driver in your interview if that's what you want to be in the long run. (In fact, they will probably discuss this in your interview anyway. They did with me. )

Good luck with your Stage One James!

 

[James stallard]

Hi there LaursP,

The course is going very well and is really good fun! Make no mistake though, it really does require a lot of hard work and dedication on your part!
From Day 1, it's straight down to business with Personal Track Safety (PTS) and your first assessment in this is quite literally on Day 2. (It's largely common sense though, and provided you pay attention and do your revision, it's quite simple. ) You'll get a couple of knowledge checks to complete a week (mainly after each module) to make sure that everything is going in, and to ensure you're keeping up to date with your learning.
So far, it's mainly classroom work (and it will be like this for the first 9 weeks), however we do get out and about a couple of times a week putting into practice what we've learned.
So far, we've had a couple of goes each on the HST simulator they have at the Academy, have tried our hand at coupling/uncoupling wagons and controlling shunting maneuvers with handsignals, and on Friday, had a little go at pulling off and braking in a Class 158.

It really is a great course so far, and definitely something you should be looking forward to!





Hi there James,

Various TOCs have their own policies regarding progression for Depot Drivers. In EMT's case, the Depot Driver grade is the starting stone to Mainline Driver, and all new trainee drivers start there!
Depot Drivers at EMT are given the full mainline driver rules course ready, and typically, after a few years working on the depot, can apply to have a place on a 'Depot Driver to Mainline Conversion Course' to begin their mainline career.
If you want to be a mainline driver for EMT, then the Trainee Depot Driver route is the way to go about it! Because of this, definitely don't be afraid to mention that you want to be a mainline driver in your interview if that's what you want to be in the long run. (In fact, they will probably discuss this in your interview anyway. They did with me. )

Good luck with your Stage One James!

Thank you, hopefully I get as far as the interview, i am really nervous about the structured interview part of the stage 1. I haven't had a interview in about 15 years.

 

[LaursP]

I have my stage 1 testing on Friday, is anyone else on here going?
Also I have been reading various other threads about depot drivers and I just wondered if depot driver is EMT proving ground for mainline drivers. As I have read that if you get to the interview stage I shouldn't mention anything about wanting to be a mainline driver, as the depot management don't like it when people leave to the mainline.

I second what Dynamonic said, they talked to me about it in my interview too- not sure if I brought it up first or they did but we had a good chat about it, and I got through. Good luck!

 

[James stallard]

From the practice information I got from EMT I assume that I won't get any questions regarding EMT or why do you want to become a train driver. More like scenario that I have experienced and how I would deal with certain things.

 

[LaursP]

From the practice information I got from EMT I assume that I won't get any questions regarding EMT or why do you want to become a train driver. More like scenario that I have experienced and how I would deal with certain things.

I did, so be prepared...

 

[LaursP]

Hi there LaursP,

The course is going very well and is really good fun! Make no mistake though, it really does require a lot of hard work and dedication on your part!
From Day 1, it's straight down to business with Personal Track Safety (PTS) and your first assessment in this is quite literally on Day 2. (It's largely common sense though, and provided you pay attention and do your revision, it's quite simple. ) You'll get a couple of knowledge checks to complete a week (mainly after each module) to make sure that everything is going in, and to ensure you're keeping up to date with your learning.
So far, it's mainly classroom work (and it will be like this for the first 9 weeks), however we do get out and about a couple of times a week putting into practice what we've learned.
So far, we've had a couple of goes each on the HST simulator they have at the Academy, have tried our hand at coupling/uncoupling wagons and controlling shunting maneuvers with handsignals, and on Friday, had a little go at pulling off and braking in a Class 158.

It really is a great course so far, and definitely something you should be looking forward to!





Hi there James,

Various TOCs have their own policies regarding progression for Depot Drivers. In EMT's case, the Depot Driver grade is the starting stone to Mainline Driver, and all new trainee drivers start there!
Depot Drivers at EMT are given the full mainline driver rules course ready, and typically, after a few years working on the depot, can apply to have a place on a 'Depot Driver to Mainline Conversion Course' to begin their mainline career.
If you want to be a mainline driver for EMT, then the Trainee Depot Driver route is the way to go about it! Because of this, definitely don't be afraid to mention that you want to be a mainline driver in your interview if that's what you want to be in the long run. (In fact, they will probably discuss this in your interview anyway. They did with me. )

Good luck with your Stage One James!

Sounds great!! Very exciting and real.... hopefully not too long to wait now for us still in the pool.

It’s good to hear you’re using the simulator- I’m sure I read someone saying that it wasn’t used much- so that’s a bonus!

The rest of your course will fly by- I might check in with you again later if that’s ok, see I it’s still meeting your expectations etc.

Good luck with the rest of it and your assessments (sounds like they’re good at supporting you along the way!).

Take care

 

[mouleaj]

I've just been notified im through to stage2 which will be next Wednesday.
Can anyone give me an idea of what to expect please

 

[Spankthemonkey]

I've just been notified im through to stage2 which will be next Wednesday.
Can anyone give me an idea of what to expect please

Is that the group exercise day? Be assertive and confident and you'll be fine.

I'd recommend reading the entire 1100+ posts of this thead to learn about the whole process from start to finish.

 

[Pikeymyboy]

Hi

Just wondered if anyone has heard anything? Or when they expect to hear something? LaursP?

Thanks

 

[stjimmy87]

Still waiting for that medical and start date.......hopefully hear something next month if November is gonna be the next course date.

 

[Pikeymyboy]

Still waiting for that medical and start date.......hopefully hear something next month if November is gonna be the next course date.

Hi,
When did you get put into the talent pool? I had heard there was a course for October but I might be wrong?
Cheers

 

[stjimmy87]

Hi,
When did you get put into the talent pool? I had heard there was a course for October but I might be wrong?
Cheers

Been in the pool since April and like you thought October would be the next course but I have heard November is now more likely.

It's both a good and bad position to be in, good in the sense all the interviews and assessments are done but bad cos i just want it all sorted!

Are u in pool as well?

 

[Pikeymyboy]

Been in the pool since April and like you thought October would be the next course but I have heard November is now more likely.

It's both a good and bad position to be in, good in the sense all the interviews and assessments are done but bad cos i just want it all sorted!

Are u in pool as well?

Yes since April too! Same here I just can’t wait to get started, I was thinking we would here something around now/next couple of weeks....

 

[stjimmy87]

Yes since April too! Same here I just can’t wait to get started, I was thinking we would here something around now/next couple of weeks....

Hopefully should be next few weeks, they need to give a good period of notice so you can hand in notice etc.

What depot have you gone for?

 

[Pikeymyboy]

Hopefully should be next few weeks, they need to give a good period of notice so you can hand in notice etc.

What depot have you gone for?

Derby... you? You think there is any advantage with either depot?

 

[stjimmy87]

Nottingham, I think it depends where they need the most drivers i'm not sure which depots are in most need.

 

[LaursP]

Hi

Just wondered if anyone has heard anything? Or when they expect to hear something? LaursP?

Thanks

Hi,
I’m exactly the same as you and stjimmy87- been in the pool since April. I’ve begun to wonder if we will hear soon so it’ll give enough time to get everything sorted for a Nov start date.
I’m still undecided as to which depot to confirm- the faster more exciting traction at Derby, or the more varied routes at Nottingham? Also heard Nottingham have a better roster & rest days, but for me Derby would be an easier commute. Choices, choices and no definitive answer!

 

[Spankthemonkey]

Hi,
I’m exactly the same as you and stjimmy87- been in the pool since April. I’ve begun to wonder if we will hear soon so it’ll give enough time to get everything sorted for a Nov start date.
I’m still undecided as to which depot to confirm- the faster more exciting traction at Derby, or the more varied routes at Nottingham? Also heard Nottingham have a better roster & rest days, but for me Derby would be an easier commute. Choices, choices and no definitive answer!

But derby DD's actually average less days per week over the entire roster, but some really odd patterns. Some weeks 6 days, others 3. Notts is a pretty regular railway roster with 11 Sundays thrown in. Both are anti social hours, derby more regular nights so easier to get the body clock set to. Notts has cracking routes at mainline grade yes. Traction, meh, it's hard enough understanding 3 units, nevermind HSTs and 222s aswell. Don't under estimate the effect of commuting on your body - and emt record your commute times and add it to their fatigue monitoring index meaning the further away you live the less overtime you are able to do.

 

[LowLevel]

It's worth bearing in mind that at Notts you do far more 'mainline driving' around the station area during the daytime as there are a lot of shunt moves, splits and attachments that generally don't happen anywhere near as much at Derby.

Also on a different level, more of a social thing, at Nottingham you'll spend more time around the main mess room which is daunting at first but stick with it - you'll soon get to know the mainline drivers, managers etc but also looking to the longer term the train guards you'll find yourself working most closely with in the future when you progress. That doesn't happen as much at Derby I believe. If there's thing I can offer as advice for the future to new depot drivers coming off the street it's not to underestimate the amount an experienced guard will know about the operation of your train without ever setting foot in the front cab with you - always work with them

On the other hand at Derby you'll get your hands on the HSTs and let's face it they won't be around for ever. If you don't mind the more limited route card it's a good place to work.

Also bear in mind that when moving from depot to mainline driver you aren't obliged to stay at the same depot - you can apply for a conversion course slot for a vacancy elsewhere.

 

[LaursP]

Notts is a pretty regular railway roster with 11 Sundays thrown in.
Is that over a 6 month period?

Don't under estimate the effect of commuting on your body - and emt record your commute times and add it to their fatigue monitoring index meaning the further away you live the less overtime you are able to do.

That’s good to know- the distance is the same but the drive and parking is going to be harder at Nottingham than derby- but then again after a get you get free EMT travel don’t you?

It's worth bearing in mind that at Notts you do far more 'mainline driving' around the station area during the daytime as there are a lot of shunt moves, splits and attachments that generally don't happen anywhere near as much at Derby.

Also on a different level, more of a social thing, at Nottingham you'll spend more time around the main mess room which is daunting at first but stick with it - you'll soon get to know the mainline drivers, managers etc but also looking to the longer term the train guards you'll find yourself working most closely with in the future when you progress. That doesn't happen as much at Derby I believe. If there's thing I can offer as advice for the future to new depot drivers coming off the street it's not to underestimate the amount an experienced guard will know about the operation of your train without ever setting foot in the front cab with you - always work with them

On the other hand at Derby you'll get your hands on the HSTs and let's face it they won't be around for ever. If you don't mind the more limited route card it's a good place to work.

Also bear in mind that when moving from depot to mainline driver you aren't obliged to stay at the same depot - you can apply for a conversion course slot for a vacancy elsewhere.

Thanks so much gents for you replies- very informative and good good for thought! Great perspective about utilising your guard, hadn’t thought about that.

Looking forward to starting!

 

[Pikeymyboy]

Hi,
I’m exactly the same as you and stjimmy87- been in the pool since April. I’ve begun to wonder if we will hear soon so it’ll give enough time to get everything sorted for a Nov start date.
I’m still undecided as to which depot to confirm- the faster more exciting traction at Derby, or the more varied routes at Nottingham? Also heard Nottingham have a better roster & rest days, but for me Derby would be an easier commute. Choices, choices and no definitive answer!

Hi
Yes Laura I was at stage 2 with you

 

[LaursP]

Notts is a pretty regular railway roster with 11 Sunday’s.

Don't under estimate the effect of commuting on your body - and emt record your commute times and add it to their fatigue monitoring index meaning the further away you live the less overtime you are able to do.

Is that 11 Sunday’s in a 6 month period?

That’s good to know- the distance is the same but the drive and parking is going to be harder at Nottingham than derby- but then again after a get you get free EMT travel don’t you?

If there's thing I can offer as advice for the future to new depot drivers coming off the street it's not to underestimate the amount an experienced guard will know about the operation of your train without ever setting foot in the front cab with you - always work with them

On the other hand at Derby you'll get your hands on the HSTs and let's fgood place to work.

Also bear in mind that when moving from depot to mainline driver you aren't obliged to stay at the same depot - you can apply for a conversion course slot for a vacancy elsewhere.

That’s great to know thanks, it’s something I hadn’t thought of to be honest- thanks for the heads up!

Thanks both for your replies. I can’t wait to start- this waiting in limbo is difficult / frustrating.

 

[LaursP]

Hi
Yes Laura I was at stage 2 with you

Were you? What is your name? I’m usually good with remembering names but might not this time...

 

[stjimmy87]

I have some questions about pay.

What date is pay day usually? Mine is 27th of the month at the moment. So how will it work if I start say half way through the month on a 12th for example?

 

[Dogbox]

You are paid every 4 weeks, the next pay date is 24/08/18. If you start half way through you will be paid for the weeks you have worked.

 

[stjimmy87]

You are paid every 4 weeks, the next pay date is 24/08/18. If you start half way through you will be paid for the weeks you have worked.

Ahhh right I was thinking that you would have to work a month before getting any pay because at our place the cut off point is 12th then pay is 27th....if that makes sense.

 

[Spankthemonkey]

Is that 11 Sunday’s in a 6 month period?

That’s good to know- the distance is the same but the drive and parking is going to be harder at Nottingham than derby- but then again after a get you get free EMT travel don’t you?

11 Sundays in 24.

 

[Quote]

Is that 11 Sunday’s in a 6 month period?

That’s good to know- the distance is the same but the drive and parking is going to be harder at Nottingham than derby- but then again after a get you get free EMT travel don’t you?




That’s great to know thanks, it’s something I hadn’t thought of to be honest- thanks for the heads up!

Thanks both for your replies. I can’t wait to start- this waiting in limbo is difficult / frustrating.

You'll all train at Derby first. If then based at Nottingham there's a car park that you can get a pass for, free parking!