Trainee Drivers (First Capital Connect)

[Coxster]

FCC are recruiting for trainee drivers at the following locations all with a closing date of 22nd Jan.

- Cambridge
- Hitchin
- Kings Cross
- Blackfriars
- Brighton

For more info visit https://firstgroup.hua.hrsmart.com/ats/job_search.php?location_region=London

 

[DJ737]

G'day there

Thanks for the heads up.

I have applied. (British citizen, resident in Australia)

Currently resident down in Melbourne, but I will be around the London area in Feb in case they want to speak with me. I am a former LUL driver & BR signalman.

Cheers

 

[Daniel]

Automatically rejected due to age! Bah! (And that's despite being able to answer 'Yes' to the question 'Have you previously passed a train operators assessment')!

 

[91101]

How old are you?

 

[westcoaster]

The thing i do not get is that both Brighton and Blackfriars are both fully complimented, with no vacancies and yet up at bedford there is a massive 35 vacancies and not any trainee vacancies this is a bit strange.

 

[Daniel]

How old are you?

I am 18 - age restrictions for drivers is 18 for London Underground and 21 for National Rail.

 

[royaloak]

So you are too young, which part of "minimum age 21" dont you understand?

Why dont you apply for other jobs on the railway that has a minimum age of 18 to get your foot in the door?

 

[Daniel]

So you are too young, which part of "minimum age 21" dont you understand?

Sir, there is no need to be rude. Perhaps I was unaware of the difference in minimum ages between LU and NR prior to applying for this job?

Why dont you apply for other jobs on the railway that has a minimum age of 18 to get your foot in the door?

Maybe that's why I am currently an Operational Apprentice for London Underground.

 

[royaloak]

I didn't mean to come across as rude, but in this post-

I am 18 - age restrictions for drivers is 18 for London Underground and 21 for National Rail.

you have put your age and the minimum ages on, so I assumed, incorrectly it appears, that you already knew the minimum ages before applying, did it not say anything on the advert or application form?

Anyway top bloke for filling the application form in, I think it took me about 6 months just for it to be ahem "not received" even though it was handed in at the recruitment centre, but magically found within 5 seconds when I queried it on the phone.

 

[Daniel]

did it not say anything on the advert or application form?

I didn't see a restriction on the advert.. and the age question was on the last page of the application, by which point there was no option to cancel, only submit.

Anyway top bloke for filling the application form in, I think it took me about 6 months just for it to be ahem "not received" even though it was handed in at the recruitment centre, but magically found within 5 seconds when I queried it on the phone.

It really annoys me when that happens - I would much rather be told 'no thank you, we've filled all the positions' than be lied too and told they didn't recieve my application..

 

[royaloak]

and the age question was on the last page of the application, by which point there was no option to cancel, only submit...

Now thats just bloody annoying!

It really annoys me when that happens - I would much rather be told 'no thank you, we've filled all the positions' than be lied too and told they didn't recieve my application..

Ah but after the issue was sorted I got the job , so no harm done.
Anyway good luck for the future mate.

 

[Daniel]

Ah but after the issue was sorted I got the job , so no harm done.

Alls well that ends well

Anyway good luck for the future mate.

Thanks, same to you!


...and to everyone else who applies for the above

 

[HSTfan!!!]

Would of applied but i've just bought myself a house down here so not really wanting to move just yet Doesn't ever seem to be any trainee vacancies down my way now I'm nearly old enough lol

 

[navydavy1968]

Best of luck to anyone applying to any of these posts!

I have a question though... I've applied for the Brighton drivers job(s), but as me and my missus are living down south and we are not really settled anywhere yet, and we're very keen for me to start a drivers job, anywhere in the country is good for us right now.

So does anyone think it is ok to apply for ALL the other driver jobs FCC have advertised, with the idea of moving if I was accepted...or do you think this will just upset FCC because I've applied for so many that I can't be serious about it etc.

Any advice would be fab!!

 

[91101]

I would stay stick to either the GN or TL, its pretty much possible to get from one end of the TL or GN for most turns but pretty darned hard to get from Kings Lynn to Brighton for BD101 0430 turn!!

 

[Flyboy]

So does anyone think it is ok to apply for ALL the other driver jobs FCC have advertised, with the idea of moving if I was accepted...

In the case of a Northern Rail position advertised a little while ago, the job description stated that applicants must live within a 30 minute travelling distance of the depot WHEN COMPLETING THEIR APPLICATION. I challenged them on this and their response was : "....it is a requirement at the point of application as without it the company does not have a guarantee that the individual is able to make the move and where relevant live within the required distance upon commencement of employment."

However, FCC may apply a little more common sense to their recruitment so I would suggest seeking their advice direct if possible.

May I also say, (as an 'outsider') good on FCC for taking on trainees. Of course it may be that FCC is a Company that doesn't attract sufficient applications from qualified drivers, (in aviation we call them 'training' airlines) in which case I suppose they don't have a choice, but nevertheless good on 'em.

 

[DJ737]

G'day there

I enquired about these vacancies

Hi there

I have noticed on your website that you have Trainee Train Driver positions available at various locations.

Would you entertain applications from overseas?

I am a British Citizen currently resident in Melbourne, Australia, before moving to Australia, I had been employed as a Train Operator with London Underground and have also been a Signalman with British Rail.

I am a frequent visitor to the UK as I have relations in London & Hertfordshire, and I next intend to visit in February 2010.

Relocation from Australia to the UK would not be a problem.

Is it worth applying?

Cheers
Anthony Tubbs
Melbourne, Australia

, and just got this in reply :

Dear Anthony

As long as you would be available for assessment dates and interviews which would take place mid to end of February in London then please do apply on line.

thanks

Sam
Resourcing Advisor
FirstGroup Resourcing

Cheers
DJ737
Melbourne, Australia

 

[grahamcpotter7]

Hi all, I need advice.
I am currently looking to see if there is any driver vacancies near me.
I live in Clacton on Sea, and would like to become a driver, but I have no idea where to look other than applying to companies, or waiting for the vacancies.

If anyone knows where I can look or apply to, I would be most grateful for the advice and help.

Thanks

Graham

 

[westcoaster]

Graham, I beleieve there is a train crew depot in clacton and nearby at colchester, have a look at the national express east anglia website as this is your local TOC.

Hope this helps westcoaster

 

[Flyboy]

Anthony - Are you quite sure you want to return to the UK????

 

[DJ737]

Hi there

Why not, Australia is not all that it's cracked up to be, I handle cold better than I handle heat as well.

Cheers
DJ737

 

[grahamcpotter7]

Graham, I beleieve there is a train crew depot in clacton and nearby at colchester, have a look at the national express east anglia website as this is your local TOC.

Hope this helps westcoaster

Thank you Westcoaster, will try that!

 

[TDK]

I am 18 - age restrictions for drivers is 18 for London Underground and 21 for National Rail.

On all the application forms and the adverts I have produced it is always quoted the minimum age of 21, I suspect you didn't read the form or the ad correctly, not a good start really for a drivers job in my opinion
--- old post above --- --- new post below ---

Hi all, I need advice.
I am currently looking to see if there is any driver vacancies near me.
I live in Clacton on Sea, and would like to become a driver, but I have no idea where to look other than applying to companies, or waiting for the vacancies.

If anyone knows where I can look or apply to, I would be most grateful for the advice and help.

Thanks

Graham

If you can't find out this information yourself with reasearch you may struggle at the assessment stages

 

[Daniel]

Sir, there is no need to be rude. Perhaps I was unaware of the difference in minimum ages between LU and NR prior to applying for this job?


Maybe that's why I am currently an Operational Apprentice for London Underground.

On all the application forms and the adverts I have produced it is always quoted the minimum age of 21, I suspect you didn't read the form or the ad correctly, not a good start really for a drivers job in my opinion

Job Title
Trainee Train Driver
Division
First Capital Connect
Location
Hitchin Station
Station Approach Walsworth Road
Hitchin, London
SG4 9UL
Job Type
Permanent - full time
Job Description
Please note the primary locations for these roles are subject to change.

---------------------------------------------------------------

FirstGroup plc is the world's leading transport operator. We operate passenger and freight services in the UK. Our passenger operations include regional, intercity and commuter services First Great Western, First ScotRail, First Capital Connect, First TransPennine Express and First Hull Trains, a non-franchised open access operator. We also provide freight services through First GBRf and operate the Croydon Tramlink network on behalf of Transport for London carrying nearly 28 million passengers per annum.

First Capital Connect is seeking trainee train drivers who are representative of the community we serve. This is an exciting chance to embark on a new career with great prospects and benefits. The training is intensive, minimum of 12 months, and 100% effort will be required.

When we say "every day a new journey" we mean it. Expect many different challenges as you
embark on the journey to become a train driver. During this journey you will learn to put the customer first, grow and develop as a leader before finally reaching the goal and getting the all important train driver licence.

Its not all about the driving, we are looking for excellent communicators who take time to listen and can advise others, a positive and professional approach to all aspects of the role and most importantly be able to deliver outstanding customer service at all times.

Sometimes our Train Drivers must manage emergency situations or disruptions whilst working alone. It is therefore key that they demonstrate focus and resilience in these circumstances. Associated written reports may also have to be compiled.

Train Drivers must regularly communicate with other Rail colleagues and customers either face to face or using other appropriate methods and techniques.

We are looking for:
• experience in a safety related or responsible role
• conscientiousness
• commitment and motivation
• someone who can sustain concentration levels
• someone who is used to working to set rules and procedures
• a logical mind and practical approach
• flexibility towards shift work and unsociable hours
• friendly customer focused, willing to help
• ideally you will hold a current driving license

Due to the nature of the post and rail industry safety requirements, there are certain medical and fitness standards that you would require to meet.
Benefits include reduced rate rail travel, privilege rate oyster card, final salary pension scheme and provision of a full uniform.

First Capital Connect is an equal opportunities employer.

Starting salary of £19,269 during training
Job Requirements
Purpose of the Role

To undergo the First Capital Connect Driver Training programme, including interim and summary assessments, in order that you will be competent to drive traction units operated by First Capital Connect in a safe, punctual and economical manner in accordance with the laid down rules, regulations and instructions.


Key Accountabilities

1. Ensure personal safety and that of others at all times. Comply with the rules and regulations as defined in the Network Rail Rule Book and associated appendices

2. Report any unsafe occurrences or practices in the prescribed manner.

3. Sign on at designated point, at correct time, wearing full uniform and equipped correctly to diagram or agreed times. Sign for, and read all operating notices relevant to First Capital Connect routes. Maintain currency of all personally issued publications.

4. Be responsible for their own learning through asked questions, involvement with discussions and monitoring their own progress against the Competence Standards. Maintain productive working relationships. Adhere to codes of conduct, and ground rules as defined in the Training Agreement.

5. Undergo interim and summary assessments as required.

6. Undergo any medical examinations as required.

No-where there does it mention a minimum age of 21. Thank you.

 

[HH]

The thing i do not get is that both Brighton and Blackfriars are both fully complimented, with no vacancies and yet up at bedford there is a massive 35 vacancies and not any trainee vacancies this is a bit strange.

I don't know where you got that number but it's not correct. There are vacancies at Bedford, but not 35, and a number of qualified drivers have already been taken on to fill many of these.

I suspect that these trainees are being taken on for changes in the December 2010 Timetable - the continuing Thameslink changes are probably about to be added to by HLOS increases, so there will be additional jobs at this time next year. Due to the time it takes to train they're already a bit late hiring them.

Of course due to Bedford being the "bolshie" depot they may be moving work away from there to Blackfriars/Brighton. I know I would.

P.S. In regard to GN & TL, the final part of the Thameslink program will be to join the two halves together (around 2016 IIRC) although I doubt that there will ever be a direct Kings Lynn to Brighton service.

 

[westcoaster]

I don't know where you got that number but it's not correct. There are vacancies at Bedford, but not 35, and a number of qualified drivers have already been taken on to fill many of these.

Of course due to Bedford being the "bolshie" depot they may be moving work away from there to Blackfriars/Brighton. I know I would.

im afraid to tell you it is correct well almost in fact i make it 37 vacancies, have you had a look at link 4 recently, its a 45 week link with only 8 drivers in it.

on the second comment about BF being "bloshie" got anything to back this up with?

 

[Aictos]

im afraid to tell you it is correct well almost in fact i make it 37 vacancies, have you had a look at link 4 recently, its a 45 week link with only 8 drivers in it.

on the second comment about BF being "bloshie" got anything to back this up with?

I can't really comment on the TL depots but they do seem to have a rep for standing up to anything they don't like, don't know if it's down to strong union support or what but you don't want to mess with the TL drivers especially if you're management.

Back to the subject of trainee drivers though, it's good to see more drivers being taken on because if there was enough drivers in the first place then surely the recent shortages might not have happened?

 

[mackenzie_blu]

I don't know where you got that number but it's not correct. There are vacancies at Bedford, but not 35, and a number of qualified drivers have already been taken on to fill many of these.

I suspect that these trainees are being taken on for changes in the December 2010 Timetable - the continuing Thameslink changes are probably about to be added to by HLOS increases, so there will be additional jobs at this time next year. Due to the time it takes to train they're already a bit late hiring them.

Of course due to Bedford being the "bolshie" depot they may be moving work away from there to Blackfriars/Brighton. I know I would.

P.S. In regard to GN & TL, the final part of the Thameslink program will be to join the two halves together (around 2016 IIRC) although I doubt that there will ever be a direct Kings Lynn to Brighton service.

I think its more able to actually run the December 09 timetable then the December 10 timetable as that won't see any major change anyway. Its the December 11 timetable that will be the next big change.

It does seem strange that theirs no Bedford but internally I thought they advertised for bedford as well as the other.

Blackfriars these days is all Sevenoaks and Loop services where Bedford/Brighton do the 'premier' route and the 377's. I believe the reason for extra drivers at the nearly full Blackfrairs to actually be ready for when things go room and have the ability to do things.

Er in current plans there isn't a plan to run from Kings Lynn to Brighton. All Kings Lynn trains will go to Kings Cross and all Brighton trains to Bedford. This was always the plan. The idea was to link BML (ie Three Bridges and Horsham) to the ECML (Peterborough and as far as Cambridge).

Well my appilcation is in with head office.

I can't really comment on the TL depots but they do seem to have a rep for standing up to anything they don't like, don't know if it's down to strong union support or what but you don't want to mess with the TL drivers especially if you're management.

Back to the subject of trainee drivers though, it's good to see more drivers being taken on because if there was enough drivers in the first place then surely the recent shortages might not have happened?

Two of the three TL depots are very good at standing up for what they want but the third isn't a pushover either.

Well if they had done this a year ago then the current problems with the half timetable wouldn't have arisen. (Tho its better for me, have a chance to drive with FCC).

No-where there does it mention a minimum age of 21. Thank you.

Don't worry the pays slightly out too!

But it does state "Due to the nature of the post and rail industry safety requirements, there are certain medical and fitness standards that you would require to meet." There's the bit that FCC will then say its an industry thing to be over 21 tho it should state it.

 

[orbit8475]

Hi All,

Im a new user to this forum. I have applied for the trainee drivers jobs at FCC. Any advice would be greatly appreciated, or if any other people have applied and want to chat about it, feel free to give me a shout.

Happy new year to you all

 

[Daniel]

Don't worry the pays slightly out too!

But it does state "Due to the nature of the post and rail industry safety requirements, there are certain medical and fitness standards that you would require to meet." There's the bit that FCC will then say its an industry thing to be over 21 tho it should state it.

Thank you - I was just trying to make the point that I didn't miss it ;D


Oh well, there we go - I shall just have to see what LU find for me, and at 21 if I think my opportunities are better upstairs then I shall have to re-assess at the time