Assessments & Medicals discussion

[RiverDon]

This is correct. You can only take the tests twice regardless of outcome of each.

No. You can take the tests as many times as you like provided you keep passing them. It's only failures where the limit comes in. Two fails would rule you out if you attempted any of them before December last year, three fails rule you out if you attempt them now. You could sit them 10 or even 100 times if you passed every attempt.

 

[redkiterail]

yes for the online tests

but for the assessment centers it is two or three strikes dependent on when you first one is

== Doublepost prevention - post automatically merged: 26 Sep 2025 ==

Hi all, I’m after some clarity. I first sat the MTR assessments back in 2018 but failed. I’ve just done the GWR Stage 1 assessments – passed three but failed one. The feedback I got was that, because of the rule change (the 7/12 policy), I can’t apply ever again. Is that correct? It feels a bit unfair, especially as I also couldn’t carry over my previously passed tests because they were too old.

Am I right in thinking that means I can’t apply for trainee train driver roles anywhere now, and I should start looking at other career options? Gutted if that’s the case.

You can still work as OBS, Guard, Train Manager. You can also be MOM, Signaler

 

[SirRancisJrake]

Hi all,

I recently had an OPC online assessment with GTS (EL) and passed everything except the VSE. they sent me an email with my results and stated after it said

“Your online test results will remain valid for 6 months. During this time you will not be able to reapply for the trainee train driver role at GTS. However, you are welcome to apply for other positions within GTS.”

I have recently applied for c2c and was wondering if my application will be postponed because I have failed the VSE with GTS.

Does anyone know if this is the case? Do I have to wait 6 months to apply for a different TOC? Are one of my lives lost because GTS is enhanced? Or do c2c do things differently and may consider my application?

Thanks in advance

 

[Pintman]

Hi all,

I recently had an OPC online assessment with GTS (EL) and passed everything except the VSE. they sent me an email with my results and stated after it said

“Your online test results will remain valid for 6 months. During this time you will not be able to reapply for the trainee train driver role at GTS. However, you are welcome to apply for other positions within GTS.”

I have recently applied for c2c and was wondering if my application will be postponed because I have failed the VSE with GTS.

Does anyone know if this is the case? Do I have to wait 6 months to apply for a different TOC? Are one of my lives lost because GTS is enhanced? Or do c2c do things differently and may consider my application?

Thanks in advance

It would only have an impact on other companies that use the VSE. I don't know if c2c use it, but if they don't then you'll be fine.

Hi all, I’m after some clarity. I first sat the MTR assessments back in 2018 but failed. I’ve just done the GWR Stage 1 assessments – passed three but failed one. The feedback I got was that, because of the rule change (the 7/12 policy), I can’t apply ever again. Is that correct? It feels a bit unfair, especially as I also couldn’t carry over my previously passed tests because they were too old.

Am I right in thinking that means I can’t apply for trainee train driver roles anywhere now, and I should start looking at other career options? Gutted if that’s the case.

Yep, that's correct. If you apply for mainline driver roles then your application will be rejected because you can't sit the RSSB psychometrics. However if you live near or in London then tube drivers don't have to sit the same process so that would still be an option for you

 

[thejedtrain]

Hi all,

I’ve been selected to complete the tests for this c2c trainee train driver. The first, is an online test. Does anyone have any tips or knowledge of the online test? Is it a c2c test, or a OPC test that is sent out? The email states:

Over the next week or so, you will be sent a link to an online “pre-sift” assessment. This will be a test of concentration & attention to detail, and will take you about 20 minutes.

Thanks in advance.

 

[marcy]

Look at the RSSB website for the documents on non technical skills. There's a list of the top ten for drivers and then a spreadsheet about good and practice for these skills. I think this gives a good overview of what to aim at in your examples.

In my MMI I picked taking my wife and two daughters to hospital for readmission after birth and for a similar task I picked processing housing application forms while working from home (repetitive task, looking at screen/background for minute changes, responsibility and consequences of making mistakes)

Thank you

 

[Trev5678]

Hi Everyone,
I have my MMI coming up this week with GTR at the OPC. I have previously failed the MMI last year on 1 question “task similar to a train driver”.
I’ve passed everything else and had my DMI last week and passed that. They sent me for the DMI first as had no slots for the MMI beforehand.
Basically i’m ****ting myself as i’m so close and they have even offered a start date pending the MMI result and obviously medical but you can’t help getting excited!

I’ve read through the entire thread and i’m not sure what i want at this stage haha success stories from those who have failed the MMI then passed 2nd time around? How to keep the nerves at bay as i’m definitely nervous this time round.

Also, if i’m giving all work based examples as that’s the best examples i have, will that be ok or will they want examples from outside work.

Thank you ☺️

 

[HoneyRach13]

Hi everyone, I have seen loads of posts on here about the online testing as part of the TFW conductor recruitment.

I have passed my SCAAT and RAAT tests and have yesterday submitted my TCT test but I’m really worried about it. I know there is no specific pass mark etc but I only answered about 10 out of the possible 40 ticket questions and now really second guessing myself if this is enough? I would love this job and have been waiting for a post to come out for ages and really don’t want to fail at this stage

I’ve seen people saying it’s accuracy over quantity etc but does anyone have any feedback from their test or insight is 10 essentially going to be enough? Of course we don’t know how many were getting right either..
I also want to add the Practice PDF was different to the 2 practice questions I got before my test and the instructions weren’t very clear which really didn’t help.

Thank you for any help!

 

[DMckduck]

Hi Everyone,
I have my MMI coming up this week with GTR at the OPC. I have previously failed the MMI last year on 1 question “task similar to a train driver”.
I’ve passed everything else and had my DMI last week and passed that. They sent me for the DMI first as had no slots for the MMI beforehand.
Basically i’m ****ting myself as i’m so close and they have even offered a start date pending the MMI result and obviously medical but you can’t help getting excited!

I’ve read through the entire thread and i’m not sure what i want at this stage haha success stories from those who have failed the MMI then passed 2nd time around? How to keep the nerves at bay as i’m definitely nervous this time round.

Also, if i’m giving all work based examples as that’s the best examples i have, will that be ok or will they want examples from outside work.

Thank you ☺️

If you have a driving licence, think about any long distance journeys you've done? The differing road conditions, weather and potential distractions, changes in speed limits and strategies to keep you focused and avoiding drifting off.

Also checking your car is road worthy before setting off, stuff like checking lights, wipers working and all the tools you need to get from A to B safely are readily available.

 

[pga2878]

Hi Everyone,
I have my MMI coming up this week with GTR at the OPC. I have previously failed the MMI last year on 1 question “task similar to a train driver”.
I’ve passed everything else and had my DMI last week and passed that. They sent me for the DMI first as had no slots for the MMI beforehand.
Basically i’m ****ting myself as i’m so close and they have even offered a start date pending the MMI result and obviously medical but you can’t help getting excited!

I’ve read through the entire thread and i’m not sure what i want at this stage haha success stories from those who have failed the MMI then passed 2nd time around? How to keep the nerves at bay as i’m definitely nervous this time round.

Also, if i’m giving all work based examples as that’s the best examples i have, will that be ok or will they want examples from outside work.

Thank you ☺️

Morning all my examples were work based and that got me through. For the example of task similar to train driver, think of something that requires concentration for a long period of time and it helps if it requires you to be safe and follow the rules. I am a serving police officer so I had lots of examples which I know was fortunate for me.

 

[Trev5678]

Morning all my examples were work based and that got me through. For the example of task similar to train driver, think of something that requires concentration for a long period of time and it helps if it requires you to be safe and follow the rules. I am a serving police officer so I had lots of examples which I know was fortunate for me.

Hello, thank you. I’m a serving prison officer was thinking of using an example where i was left in charge of a wing all night, checking on high risk self harmers and staying focused doing a repetitive task? i’m hoping they will see that as similar or would you suggest a driving type scenario

== Doublepost prevention - post automatically merged: 29 Sep 2025 ==

If you have a driving licence, think about any long distance journeys you've done? The differing road conditions, weather and potential distractions, changes in speed limits and strategies to keep you focused and avoiding drifting off.

Also checking your car is road worthy before setting off, stuff like checking lights, wipers working and all the tools you need to get from A to B safely are readily available.

I’m definitely going to have a situation like this as a back up in case they don’t like my prison scenario. Thank you ☺️

 

[carwyn006]

Which station have you applied for?

 

[HoneyRach13]

Which station have you applied for?

The Junction talent pool

 

[carwyn006]

I've heard it leans more towards accuracy over quantity. Did you get some feedback re your SCAAT test and RAAT rest scores?

 

[HoneyRach13]

I've heard it leans more towards accuracy over quantity. Did you get some feedback re your SCAAT test and RAAT rest scores?

Fingers crossed I’m really worried! No all I got both times for those is just congratulations and an invite to the next test..

== Doublepost prevention - post automatically merged: 29 Sep 2025 ==

Fingers crossed I’m really worried! No all I got both times for those is just congratulations and an invite to the next test..

I’ve seen loads of different comments people saying they’ve done 14 or 20 etc which completely threw me. I did remember reading in the instructions also that they advised to get a paper to do any workings out.. I don’t feel you can physically get many questions done in 10 minutes if you’re spending time doing workings out.

 

[carwyn006]

I'm still waiting on the SCAAT test results for Holyhead. It's been nearly 2 weeks since the deadline.

Did you have the same feeling after the other tests?

== Doublepost prevention - post automatically merged: 29 Sep 2025 ==

Fingers crossed I’m really worried! No all I got both times for those is just congratulations and an invite to the next test..

== Doublepost prevention - post automatically merged: 29 Sep 2025 ==


I’ve seen loads of different comments people saying they’ve done 14 or 20 etc which completely threw me. I did remember reading in the instructions also that they advised to get a paper to do any workings out.. I don’t feel you can physically get many questions done in 10 minutes if you’re spending time doing workings out.

I'm still waiting on the SCAAT test results for Holyhead. It's been nearly 2 weeks since the deadline.

Did you have the same feeling after the other tests?

 

[HoneyRach13]

I'm still waiting on the SCAAT test results for Holyhead. It's been nearly 2 weeks since the deadline.

Did you have the same feeling after the other tests?

== Doublepost prevention - post automatically merged: 29 Sep 2025 ==


I'm still waiting on the SCAAT test results for Holyhead. It's been nearly 2 weeks since the deadline.

Did you have the same feeling after the other tests?

I have also seen people getting feedback at completely different times. I waited about 1 week post deadline for both.

How do you feel it went?

Initially for the SCAAT I did because I thought I did well but had no idea what to expect. The RAAT I felt I did ok but the TCT just the quantity of questions I did that has worried me.

 

[carwyn006]

I have also seen people getting feedback at completely different times. I waited about 1 week post deadline for both.

How do you feel it went?

Initially for the SCAAT I did because I thought I did well but had no idea what to expect. The RAAT I felt I did ok but the TCT just the quantity of questions I did that has worried me.

I felt it went well, but to what extent is 'well' in such test when the criteria isn't clear. Probably like the RAAT and TCT test.

How long after the SCAAT did you get to do the RAAT test?

I think you should be fine, it's the unknown that beats you up right.

 

[HoneyRach13]

I felt it went well, but to what extent is 'well' in such test when the criteria isn't clear. Probably like the RAAT and TCT test.

How long after the SCAAT did you get to do the RAAT test?

I think you should be fine, it's the unknown that beats you up right.

Of course, very difficult to judge when you have no idea what the pass marks are etc.

So the same process, I got the result within around a week post deadline giving me a new period to complete the test which is normally 6/7 days?

I hope so, definitely feeling anxious about it.

 

[carwyn006]

Of course, very difficult to judge when you have no idea what the pass marks are etc.

So the same process, I got the result within around a week post deadline giving me a new period to complete the test which is normally 6/7 days?

I hope so, definitely feeling anxious about it.

You'll be fine. Best of luck to you.

 

[ReeTrains]

Hi, can anyone give me some help?

I recently applied for the trainee train driver role at Willesden Junction for ARL and passed the VSE. I got an email saying I have been placed into a talent pool for the OPC assessment day as they are ‘Awaiting more dates from ARL’. Does anyone know/have experience with being put in a talent pool for the OPC assessment day? Or does anyone know how long on average it takes to get a date to attend or even if I will be given a date at all?

Any more information would be greatly appreciated as it’s my first time making it to this stage. Thank you for your help in advance!

 

[jaybon92]

Patiently waiting for the EMR driver opertunity openings which are between October and January. Anyone else been through the initial process and able to give some tips? I am pretty worried about the MMI as I've heard some horror stories

 

[Dragon77]

Hi I have my medical this week. Is there a dress code?

Also, is there a dress code for the training course until a uniform is issued?

 

[Mr Francis]

Hi I have my medical this week. Is there a dress code?

Also, is there a dress code for the training course until a uniform is issued?

No dress code for the medical.

Training course says smart and casual until uniform is issued. That’s for ARL, I’m not sure about other TOC’s.

 

[ekn2020]

Hi
About 2 seconds at most , I sat this Friday and got through everything and got the job offer

Hi - I’m really struggling with the image practising, and only seeing the picture for 1 second!! Can you offer any advice on this? Is it easier on the day than the practise material?

 

[Reactor Scram]

Hi - I’m really struggling with the image practising, and only seeing the picture for 1 second!! Can you offer any advice on this? Is it easier on the day than the practise material?

I found this test tough - failed it first time. Lots of advice about selecting things you definitely saw. It's good advice but I'm certain I fell down as I was actually missing stuff.

Practicing for the second attempt took a while to get good scores but like anything keep practicing and you'll get better.

Don't know if you're practicing with the document the train company sent or whether you've got hold of some software but to answer your question, yes it's on screen for 1 second max. About 25 to get through.

Maximum focus but stay relaxed. Keep practicing.

 

[jaybon92]

Hi there again, is there any software or online sites that I can use to practice all of the tests for free? How to become youtube i don't really trust as they deal with all sorts of jobs and im looking for more specific

Appreciate the replies and help

 

[Loismcg]

Just had my medical and all is good apart from the doctor absolutely drilling me about some arthritis I have in my feet (literally doesn't cause me any issues). Now he's gotta send a request to my GP for more information and then I've gotta chase. My start date is the 13th and he said that this could delay it

 

[erer245]

Hello all. Asked this chat a lot but im back with more. If you have passed the medical for a train driver, or if you are one. Please can you message me privately. I have some personal questions I need to ask that aren't for the general chat. Thanks all.

 

[Trev5678]

Did anyone have there MMI at the OPC yesterday?

Wondering how long we would have to wait on the results. I left feeling like it didn’t go to well.