Trainee Train Driver Review
at Southeastern Railway
Level 3 Apprenticeship
Driver
Orpington
Review Submitted: April 2025
Overall Rating
3.7 /5
The Overall Rating is the average of all the ratings given in each category. We take those individual ratings and combine them into one final score!
4/5
-
Overview of Role
4/5
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Skills Development
3.4/5
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Structure and Support
Overview of Role
Please give an overview of your role and what this involves on a day-to-day basis:
4/5
First 4/5 months involved classroom based rules and traction courses. Consisted of practical and theoretical pass or fail elements. Currently I am paired with an experienced train driver observing them and mirroring their shift whilst waiting for a driver instructor.
To what extent do you enjoy your programme?
4/5
The start of the programme was really well run and I was made to feel very welcome and supported by the company, in particular my learning coach. My tutors during my rules course were very engaging and supportive. Like wise my manager, so have enjoyed it
Skills Development
Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?
4/5
I was not from a railway background during my previous proffession. The amount of skills I have learned and developed has been immense. The rules and traction course were incredibly detailed and very challenging.
Structure and Support
How well organised/structured is your programme?
4/5
The initial phase of the programme was incredibly well organised, however after I had completed the rules and the traction course there was a delay in allocating a driving instructor. The communication regarding this element has been pretty poor but up until then it had been good.
How much support do you receive from your employer?
4/5
My manager has made it very clear that he is available should I have queries or issues. In this regard I feel well supported.
How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?
4/5
The support I have received from all of the aforementioned people has been excellent. I am hoping my driving instructors are as supportive.
How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?
2/5
I don't think I can answer this question at this moment in time as I haven't started driving yet.
Are there extra-curricular activities to get involved in at your work? (For example, any social activities, sports teams, or even professional networking events.)
3/5
I believe there are but at this stage I am more concentrating on obtaining my train drivers license so have not explored them.
Recommendations & Advice
Would you recommend Southeastern Railway to a friend?
Yes
Why?
There are three main reasons, firstly because they work a 4 day week, secondly the people, and thirdly the pay is good (as said, I don't come from a railway background)
What tips or advice would you give to others applying to Southeastern Railway?
Speak to someone who is already doing the job. This will give you a proper insight into the role.
