Holly explains the Interview and assessment process
Flow chart
Application form and sifting
When applying to be a train driver you will be asked to complete an application form. In some cases you may also be asked to complete other tests such as a Situational Judgement Exercise or a telephone interview. Before submitting an application you should gather some information about what the role entails, the type of skills you will need and the type of environment you will be working in. Train driving is not for everyone so you should be sure this is the job for you before applying.
Assessments and interview
If your application is successful you will be asked to undertake the train driver psychometric assessment. This consists of a range of assessments that assess your cognitive skills, psychomotor skills (hand coordination) and your behavioural preferences. The aim is to identify candidates who do not have the underpinning ability to be a safe train driver. The assessments can be carried out in one day, but typically employers split the assessments into two stages. Stage 1 usually consists of the paper and pencil assessments, while stage 2 usually consists of the computerised assessments and a behavioural preference assessment. The table below sets out the criteria and assessments that you will undertake.
You will be given practice materials to help you become more familiar with most of the tests and have a go at completing them. You only have two attempts at the assessments and so it is important to use the practice materials.
Employers may also carry out additional assessments, so don’t be surprised if you are asked to undertake assessments that are not listed here.
You will also be asked to undertake a company specific interview. This interview looks to assess specific skills, values and behaviours that are relevant to the employer. This is typically a face to face interview either with a panel or sometimes the manager of the depot that you will be working in. This interview typically takes place once you have passed the assessments, but in some cases this interview can take place in between stage 1 and 2 of the psychometric assessment or can take place before you have undertaken the assessments.
