How to become a Train Driver

How to become a Train Driver Have you always had a fascination with Britains railways? Do you dream of speeding through the countryside and love the idea of being able to travel for work? If yes, then why not become a Train Driver?In this job, you could drive both passenger and freight trains locally and nationally, as well as working on the driving for engineering projects, so theres lots of opportunity for variation, although you do need to be at least 21 years old to train as a national Train DriverA Train Drivers main responsibilities are typically:Checking the vehicle before each shift and contacting the control centre for relevant travel informationDriving the train along a pre-determined routeFollowing signals along each route and stopping to pick up and drop off people or freightMaking passenger announcements and controlling the doorsIs it right for me?If you find trains deathly boring and avoid travelling on them at all costs, then this definitely isnt the job for you. If, however, you find them interes ting and love the idea of being able to travel every day, then you may be the ideal candidate.The training period usually lasts between nine and 18 months, starting in a cab simulator. Once youve qualified, youll also typically benefit from reduced price or even free travel, which is a nice perk.A good Train Driver will be:Able to concentrate for long periods of timeGood with customersPatientResponsible with a conscientious attitude to safety managementAble to react quickly and calmly in unforeseen circumstancesWhat's it really like? I have always loved the railways and everything on them, from steam vehicles to today's diesel and electric trains, so becoming a driver was a natural progression for me. I find it amazing to sit in my cab and make my way right across the country in a few hours - who needs the roads when you've got rails? Get qualifiedYou do not always need specific qualifications to be a Train Driver, although most employers will expect you to have a good general stand ard of education, including GCSEs in Maths and English. Some mechanical or electrical knowledge may also be useful.