Train Driver Review
at Great Western Railway
Level 3 Apprenticeship
Driver
Worcester
Review Submitted: April 2026
Overall Rating
5 /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!
5/5
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Overview of Role
5/5
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Skills Development
5/5
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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:
5/5
Driving trains and keeping passengers safe by following strict rules and regulations in the process. Having knowledge of routes and how the trains work so I always know where I am and how to act/ react to various circumstances.
To what extent do you enjoy your programme?
5/5
The apprenticeship which ran alongside my training was a welcome addition which allowed me to turn my attention to other rewarding aspects of learning all while under a high intensity training programme. I am grateful to have undertaken and completed the programme as it was rewarding and complimented my training, while adding a qualification to my CV.
Skills Development
Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?
5/5
I have learnt many new skills including:
Managing shift work and fatigue
Following strict rules and procedures and acknowledging the reasons for doing so
Maintaining my competency through constant review of rules and assessment
Communication skills with colleagues and other railway stakeholders
Managing shift work and fatigue
Following strict rules and procedures and acknowledging the reasons for doing so
Maintaining my competency through constant review of rules and assessment
Communication skills with colleagues and other railway stakeholders
Structure and Support
How well organised/structured is your programme?
5/5
The programme was well structured and I was aware of what was required from me from the get go. I was informed about the EPA throughout and always felt prepared for the next step. I never felt unsure of what was happening and could follow along nicely.
How much support do you receive from your employer?
5/5
I received brilliant support from everyone involved in my training and never felt a burden when needing help. I cannot fault the process.
How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?
5/5
The support on this was excellent. I always felt that I had someone to turn to if needing help and having a training provider external to the railway offered a different and beneficial approach to learning and understanding.
How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?
5/5
I am very glad I went through the apprenticeship because it allowed me more chances to check in on my progress, thus helping my motivation when seeing how far I had come. I had to learn more elements to driving trains for undertaking the EPA which broadened my knowledge.
Are there extra-curricular activities to get involved in at your work? (For example, any social activities, sports teams, or even professional networking events.)
5/5
There are various oppurtunties including sports teams and charity fundraising. Both of which I have taken part in. There are also health and safety, mental health first aiders and ASLEF reps.
Recommendations & Advice
Would you recommend Great Western Railway to a friend?
Yes
Why?
A great employer with genuinely good and tangible benefits. Also a good work life balance however shift times can be tricky, but they suit me nicely.
A rewarding career also as I take genuine satisfaction in moving people to where they need to be.
A rewarding career also as I take genuine satisfaction in moving people to where they need to be.
What tips or advice would you give to others applying to Great Western Railway?
Think safety first at all times. Be diligent and focused and you will do well.
