I had this outcome with London Overground and still haven’t heard back. I know my answers were slightly different this time round (both SJTs were the same) but seem like there’s much between passing and failing.
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GWR - Trainee Train Driver - Recruitment Discussion
- Thread starter JT97
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IndegoMouse
Member
I haven’t heard anything but assume pass rate will be based on applicants so won’t get results until after job is closed (29th June)
RobotBen91
Member
Ive applied for the Depot driver for Exeter. I'm in the talent pool for Exeter for mainline but was told it's going to be a long wait so if this one is quicker ill be more than happy with this position. Hoping I can skip the assessments as ive passed them recently.Trainee Train Driver Fratton -
Trainee Train Driver - Fratton, Hampshire, United Kingdom
Do you want the best seat on the railway? Every day, our Train Drivers help thousands of customers travel safely, comfortably and on time. They're the face of our operation, playing a vital role in delivering an exceptional journey and helping shape the future of rail travel. If you're looking...careers.firstgroup.co.uk
Trainee Train Driver Plymouth -
Trainee Train Driver - Plymouth, United Kingdom
Do you want the best seat on the railway? Every day, our Train Drivers help thousands of customers travel safely, comfortably and on time. They're the face of our operation, playing a vital role in delivering an exceptional journey and helping shape the future of rail travel. If you're looking...
Trainee Train Driver Paddington & Oxford -
Trainee Train Driver - Oxford, Oxfordshire, United Kingdom - London, Greater London, United Kingdom
Do you want the best seat on the railway? Every day, our Train Drivers help thousands of customers travel safely, comfortably and on time. They're the face of our operation, playing a vital role in delivering an exceptional journey and helping shape the future of rail travel. If you're looking...
Trainee Depot Driver - Exeter, Plymouth, Penzance:
Trainee Depot Driver - West Region - Exeter, United Kingdom - Plymouth, United Kingdom - Penzance, Cornwall, United Kingdom
Who are we? GWR is the proud custodian of Brunel's railway - one of the most prestigious networks in the world. We have some of the newest trains in the country and exciting plans to extend our services. With more than one hundred million passenger journeys each year, we carry people to over...
Advert closes 30 June 2026.
For anyone new to this. Apply quickly as the advert may be removed early. Be detailed in your application and proof read it. Think about the qualities of a train driver.
You'll be asked to do two tests after application (unless there is any changes from recently). First will be a situational judgement test with no time limit. Rate given scenarios as most or least appropriate.
Then you'll get an error checking test which is timed. You'll get some data and you need to spot the error(s), if any. This is timed and both speed and accuracy are needed. Don't be worried if you don't finish it. There is practice questions you can do as many times as you like.
These tests are used as a sifting tool. If you pass AND score highly enough to be progressed then you'll have a video interview to do - this is not with a person. Three or four questions and answer into your computer camera. There is opportunity to practice.
If you get through this then it'll be onto train driver psychometrics which GWR split over 2 days. Paper and and computer tests in one long day. If you pass then you'll do the multi modal interview (MMI) which is a one to one with an assessor who is assessing your competency to do the job.
Pass that and you'll get a sit down with the company in the form of a Driver Manager Interview (DMI). This is the job interview where you'll demonstrate why you want the job and how you have the necessary skills and that you'll fit in with the depot and company values.
Pass that and you'll most likely be placed on a reserve list pending a space on a course. Once they tell you that you've got a training start date you'll go for a medical and you'll get a contract following right to work checks. They'll ask for references after you receive your contract.
Timescales can vary a lot. Expect minimum 1 year from applying to start date with long waits between communication from the company. Remember, that if you haven't been rejected then you're still in. Some people wait 3 or 4 years from application to getting a start date so be prepared to exercise patience.
Very competitive process. Googling tells me that it's approximately 1 in 400 applicants get a start date.
If there are questions then happy to help, where I can. Good luck!
EssexBound
Member
I’ve just completed my SJT and have been invited to complete the next assessment, which I assume will be the error checking test.
My initial 48 hour window to complete my SJT expired at 1pm tomorrow. I’m on shift work tonight, so would ideally like to do the Error Checking test tomorrow night, once I’m rested. Do I have another 48 hours from completing my SJT to get the next test done?
Apologies for the slightly niche question.
My initial 48 hour window to complete my SJT expired at 1pm tomorrow. I’m on shift work tonight, so would ideally like to do the Error Checking test tomorrow night, once I’m rested. Do I have another 48 hours from completing my SJT to get the next test done?
Apologies for the slightly niche question.
Last edited:
Twin82
Member
Yes
rail graft
Member
ive applied for overground and GWR (both first London) Identical assessments the SJT then fault findings I did both, for overground I received an email 3 days after saying my application is with the hiring manager which from what I gathered is a pass, however with GWR I completed both and feel I scored better and its been 3 days and I still haven't recieved anything after completing both assessments, so I think they're still working through applications as it only closed a few days ago whereas the other overground one (also under first rail group) closed very quickly so I think its a waiting game
v16ull
Member
That error checking test is a bitch! I have also applied for First Rail London, New Cross Gate Depot and Paddington with GWR so have done it twice now. Error checking is the sort of thing I can either do quickly or properly so I opted for properly and only got 14 which probably isn't enough. Does anybody have any experience of how long we need to wait to see if we've passed the error-checking.
Reactor Scram
Member
In 2024 I applied and it was 6.5 months from error checking to the hiring manager email.
In 2025 it was 17 days.
SmugStarlord
Member
When I applied with GWR in december last year, it was roughly early Feb I heard back, so around 7 weeks.
No news is good news.
Plus, given the heatwave we are having, there could be limited staff working in their head office.
v16ull
Member
Oh crikey, I best put it to the back of my mind then! I suppose I’ve been spoiled by the quick response of First Rail London who sent me the “with the hiring manager” email instantly after the error checking test. I’ve even seen some people on that thread saying they’ve had rejections so I’m working on the basis that no news is good news…….
officewalla
Member
Be prepared for a long wait with GWR. Current vacancies are very limited in the LTV area with a long training backlog.Nobody is leaving and the work is not increasing until Sundays become part of the working week when things might change. Also GWR goes to the DfT on Dec 13th so what is a tight financial situation now is likely to become worse with the associated knock on to recruitment and training.
Waterlooville
On Moderation
Amazing that the GWR vacancies are still open, and the length of time involved for this TOC. The TOC I am already way down the process for have trainee adverts that only last 1 to 2 hours before they are full and taken down - and the results come through in days. I did my application, SJT, assessment days x 2 and DMI within 6 weeks last year. Its only the MMI and awaiting a start date that has taken longer but I am next on the list for my depot, so will be in by the end of the year.
Hello everyone,
I applied for oxford/london. For the initial stage assessment I passed SJT and going to do now error checking. Does any one know is there any test after that test ? Like video questions and answers and if yes can anyone please tell what questions they are asking ?
I applied for oxford/london. For the initial stage assessment I passed SJT and going to do now error checking. Does any one know is there any test after that test ? Like video questions and answers and if yes can anyone please tell what questions they are asking ?
Waterlooville
On Moderation
There are no further tests after the two initial tests post application for GWR
Reactor Scram
Member
Video interview - yes. 3 or 4 questions. Question flashes up on the screen. You get a minute or so to prepare your answer then the camera switches on and you can talk for max 2 mins. You can re-record once if you wish. If you re-record then you can only submit that attempt.
Questions vary as I've done it a few times now but examples include:
- Why you want to be a train driver?
- What colleagues think of you?
- What safety means to you?
- What skills does a train driver need?
- What is good communication?
- What is good customer service?
- How do you deal with working alone?
Be clear and articulate, when you get there. Further details on the process quoted below which I wrote a couple of days ago.
Trainee Train Driver Fratton -
Trainee Train Driver - Fratton, Hampshire, United Kingdom
Do you want the best seat on the railway? Every day, our Train Drivers help thousands of customers travel safely, comfortably and on time. They're the face of our operation, playing a vital role in delivering an exceptional journey and helping shape the future of rail travel. If you're looking...
Trainee Train Driver Plymouth -
unfurl="true"]https://careers.firstgroup.co.uk/jobs/trainee-train-driver-plymouth-united-kingdom
Trainee Train Driver Paddington & Oxford -
Trainee Train Driver - Oxford, Oxfordshire, United Kingdom - London, Greater London, United Kingdom
Do you want the best seat on the railway? Every day, our Train Drivers help thousands of customers travel safely, comfortably and on time. They're the face of our operation, playing a vital role in delivering an exceptional journey and helping shape the future of rail travel. If you're looking...
Trainee Depot Driver - Exeter, Plymouth, Penzance:
Trainee Depot Driver - West Region - Exeter, United Kingdom - Plymouth, United Kingdom - Penzance, Cornwall, United Kingdom
Who are we? GWR is the proud custodian of Brunel's railway - one of the most prestigious networks in the world. We have some of the newest trains in the country and exciting plans to extend our services. With more than one hundred million passenger journeys each year, we carry people to over...
Advert closes 30 June 2026.
For anyone new to this. Apply quickly as the advert may be removed early. Be detailed in your application and proof read it. Think about the qualities of a train driver.
You'll be asked to do two tests after application (unless there is any changes from recently). First will be a situational judgement test with no time limit. Rate given scenarios as most or least appropriate.
Then you'll get an error checking test which is timed. You'll get some data and you need to spot the error(s), if any. This is timed and both speed and accuracy are needed. Don't be worried if you don't finish it. There is practice questions you can do as many times as you like.
These tests are used as a sifting tool. If you pass AND score highly enough to be progressed then you'll have a video interview to do - this is not with a person. Three or four questions and answer into your computer camera. There is opportunity to practice.
If you get through this then it'll be onto train driver psychometrics which GWR split over 2 days. Paper and and computer tests in one long day. If you pass then you'll do the multi modal interview (MMI) which is a one to one with an assessor who is assessing your competency to do the job.
Pass that and you'll get a sit down with the company in the form of a Driver Manager Interview (DMI). This is the job interview where you'll demonstrate why you want the job and how you have the necessary skills and that you'll fit in with the depot and company values.
Pass that and you'll most likely be placed on a reserve list pending a space on a course. Once they tell you that you've got a training start date you'll go for a medical and you'll get a contract following right to work checks. They'll ask for references after you receive your contract.
Timescales can vary a lot. Expect minimum 1 year from applying to start date with long waits between communication from the company. Remember, that if you haven't been rejected then you're still in. Some people wait 3 or 4 years from application to getting a start date so be prepared to exercise patience.
Very competitive process. Googling tells me that it's approximately 1 in 400 applicants get a start date.
If there are questions then happy to help, where I can. Good luck!
Twin82
Member
Very well detailed. Thank you for this. So how far are you in the recruitment process?
Reactor Scram
Member
No worries, RF has been helpful to me so trying give back where I can.
Start with GWR at Bristol Temple Meads on 13 July, so not long now.
Further details on my timeline here:
hi, I'm glad you got though in the end and congrats on your start date.
I've passed the psychometrics with GWR and am just waiting for a DMI at reading.
Could you give any advice/pointers for the DMI from your experience?
Reactor Scram
Member
Hiya,
- Motivations for the job
- Company values
- Customer service examples
- MMI style questions. When have you used rules and procedures and demonstrate being safety minded.
Just keep drawing everything back to the main required competencies. Working alone, safety, rules etc
They want to get to know you as well so just be yourself.
Some will say it's relaxed and others say the opposite. Mine was neither one or the other. If you've got this far, give it your all in front of the people that matter.
Twin82
Member
Many congrats to you!! All worked out in the end. I wish you all the best moving forward. Thanks for all the information you shared. I’m waiting on dmi with another toc myself but just wanted to give myself options with other tocs.
Thank you so much for the details. I finished error checking and I didn’t have that video questions so do you think its normal ? Or means that I didn’t reach at min score ?
Well done on getting to the DMI, I know quite a lot of people who apply for various tocs, but during my interview with Southeastern that was my one big selling point, They are my local toc and the only one that I applied for and I really did hammer that home.
So during your DMI with whatever toc it is my best advice is, why do you want to work for them??
Waterlooville
On Moderation
As I mentioned above it will take a while they are not instant. The results could take weeks to come through yet.
Great, thanks!
Reactor Scram
Member
The next you'll get is either a rejection email or "it's with the hiring manager" email.
In 2024, for me, this wait was 6.5 months from error checking to hiring manager email. I then got a separate email invite to video interview about 4 weeks after that.
In 2025, it was 17 days from error checking to hiring manager email and then 3 or 4 weeks later got the invite email to video interview.
I've also been rejected after error checking before and that only took a handful a days.
No news and you're still in. The waiting is tough.
Twin82
Member
My dmi will be with southeastern. And just like you, it is my local toc. Hope long I will have a strong answer to that question as well as answers for the core question bank they will send out. Gender how many questions out of that question bank will appear in the interview. Are you on a course of still waiting for MMI?
Okay Southeastern being your local is good, hammer that home, I've passed everything barring medical at the moment.
The core bank questions you will only get asked 3, I won't publish them for various reasons.
Learn that TPWS sheet, Southeastern the Company, Role of a train driver, and you'll be absolutely fine.
Twin82
Member
Apologies for the resending of the same message. Not sure what’s going on here. Terrific. So you’re literally through the door now. How the wait won’t be much longer for you.
I understand. I am hoping I’ll have a few core answers that I could use for a number of questions.
Yes yes. TPWS. Definitely. I’ll tap into the other suggestions as well. How long do you think you will need to be fully prepared for the dmi?
I've seen you ask this so many times about the DMI lol, just relax its seriously not that bad.
I've given you everything you need to revise on, everything else is about YOU!!! they need to know that you are the right fit for them.
Be yourself study what ive told you too, the rest will take care of itself.
Twin82
Member
Lol. Someone showing attention to detail . Mate I’m petrified about the dmi. Haven’t had an interview of such before. Been at my company 24 years. Don’t want to mess up an opportunity of a lifetime.
Im lucky to know a few train drivers coming from my work background as a bus driver. In fact, the person who ignited this interest actually works at the CX depot, which I’m making progress with. Another friend used to work at Victoria, which is the other pool I am in. Both been driving for a while so they’re not too updated with the latest recruiting stuff. I was their senior during their time on the buses. So I guess it comes down to how well I articulate myself. Interview stage is my less favoured part of the entire process
Thanks for replying but maybe best to leave this chat for the SE thread