Following a successful pilot, Rail Delivery Group (RDG) in partnership with passenger train operators, ASLEF and the Rail Safety and Standards Board (RSSB), has developed a new framework to enhance practical on-the-job training for train drivers.
The new framework represents a major milestone in industry-wide collaboration, bringing together key partners to strengthen driver training across the rail sector. Whilst the current approach requires trainees to complete a set number of hours before final assessment, a competency-based model focuses on measuring the progress in the development of skills and knowledge needed to operate safely and effectively.
Building on the success of the pilot with CrossCountry, East Midlands Railway and Govia Thameslink Railway, the new framework reinforces the practical aspects of driver training and provides a consistent approach that passenger train operators can adopt. By enabling trainee drivers to progress once they have demonstrated the required competencies rather than after completing a prescribed number of training hours, the framework offers a more flexible and effective approach to driver development. The new model also has the potential to improve safety and performance outcomes by being adaptable to support individual training needs.
During the pilot, trainee drivers progress was measured against the development of core skills, the application of relevant knowledge and non-technical skills. The evidence generated informed independent decisions relating to a trainee’s readiness for assessment, attainment and competency. This approach focuses on competence and supporting the development of core skills, whilst providing trainees with the opportunity to consolidate new knowledge and gain essential on-the-job experience. The ability to adapt the application of the framework to support individual training needs, aims to improve outcomes from both a safety and performance perspective, maintaining the industry’s resolute commitment to safety
Endorsed by ASLEF, the train drivers’ union, this update to practical driver training focuses on personal development, supported through effective coaching and mentoring by experienced and qualified colleagues, as well as greater transparency and targeted support where required.
To support this, a dedicated upskilling course for those directly involved in trainee driver training such as driver instructors, mentors and managers has been developed to aid them in delivering a high-quality blend of instruction, mentoring and coaching.
Daniel Mann, Director of Industry Operations at Rail Delivery Group, said: “The development of this framework is a great example of cross-industry collaboration at its best. Working closely with train operators, RSSB and ASLEF, we’re proud to have developed an approach that better supports the personal, on-the-job development of trainee drivers through structured coaching, mentoring and practical experience.
“By tracking technical progress and growing capability over time, learning and development has become more visible, flexible and trainee-centred, empowering future train drivers to gain relevant experience within a live operating environment, whilst still maintaining rigorous safety standards.
“Together, these changes will help better prepare newly qualified train drivers for the future career that awaits them.”
Dave Calfe, General Secretary of ASLEF, said: “ASLEF, the train drivers’ union, is working positively, together with the rail industry, to encourage young people to apply to become, and then train to become, drivers in what is, and always has been, a competence-based role.
“Reducing the age at which drivers can start training from 20 to 18 – bringing it into line with Tube train drivers in London and with other European countries such as Germany, the Netherlands, and Switzerland – will enable the rail industry to recruit the large number of drivers it needs over the next five years as well as ensuring that the people in the driver’s cab better reflect the communities we serve.
“The new framework, with its focus on personal one-to-one development, and practical on-the-job training, will ensure that drivers are trained to the highest possible standards in our safety-critical industry as we make sure our railway is fit for the 21st century.”
Mark Phillips, Chief Executive, RSSB, said: “This framework is an important step in developing the next generation of train drivers.
“By asking trainees to demonstrate competence rather than complete a set number of hours, it makes practical training more flexible and more consistent while maintaining the highest safety standards.
“RSSB was pleased to bring its expertise in safety, human factors and competence management to the framework’s development and evaluation. The industry now has a practical approach that will give new drivers the skills, experience and confidence to operate safely.”
Image credit: Rail Delivery Group
