{"id":490811,"date":"2026-07-28T21:16:00","date_gmt":"2026-07-28T11:16:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/railuk.com\/?p=197045"},"modified":"2026-07-28T21:16:00","modified_gmt":"2026-07-28T11:16:00","slug":"freight-rail-company-recruiting-ten-trainee-train-drivers-in-somerset","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.vibewire.com.au\/?p=490811","title":{"rendered":"Freight Rail Company Recruiting Ten Trainee Train Drivers in Somerset"},"content":{"rendered":"

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A rare opportunity to become a train driver has opened up in Somerset, with freight operator Heavy Haul Rail recruiting ten trainee train drivers for its Mendip depot.<\/strong><\/p>\n

The roles are open to people living within a 60-minute commute of the depot in the Mendip area and form part of a full-time training programme beginning in October 2026.<\/p>\n

The recruitment drive comes shortly after a significant change to the industry, with the minimum age for train drivers in Great Britain reduced from 20 to 18 in June this year. The move is designed to help attract more people into railway careers, address future skills shortages and improve diversity across the rail sector.<\/p>\n

Trainee train driver vacancies are relatively uncommon, making the latest recruitment campaign a rare opportunity for local people to enter a highly skilled profession with long-term career prospects.<\/p>\n

Heavy Haul Rail, which transports around 17 million tonnes of freight each year across the UK, is seeking motivated individuals to join its structured Trainee Train Driver Programme. Successful candidates will receive comprehensive training, mentoring and support as they work towards becoming qualified mainline train drivers.<\/p>\n

Stefan Aldridge, Regional Operations Manager for Heavy Haul Rail South, said:<\/strong><\/p>\n

“Opportunities to train as a train driver do not come around very often, which is why we are encouraging anyone who is interested and meets the criteria to apply. The recent change lowering the minimum age to 18 opens the door to a wider range of people considering a career in rail, including those who may be leaving education and looking for a rewarding long-term profession.<\/em><\/p>\n

“Train driving is a highly respected and safety-critical role that offers excellent career development opportunities. Our trainee programme provides first-class training and support, giving successful applicants the knowledge, skills and confidence they need to build a successful career with Heavy Haul Rail.”<\/em><\/p>\n

The programme will provide:<\/p>\n