Route Learning, development and assessment

[bristolrell244]

Hey everyone. I'm a driver in Northern Ireland and I was wondering what programs, procedures, training materials and assessments you use on the mainland for developing route knowledge and learning.

The reason I ask is because I am trying to develop new ways to enhance my route knowledge and route learning but also bring new ideas forward to help others.

Any experiences good or bad I would love to hear!!

 

[t_star2001uk]

Hey everyone. I'm a driver in Northern Ireland and I was wondering what programs, procedures, training materials and assessments you use on the mainland for developing route knowledge and learning.

The reason I ask is because I am trying to develop new ways to enhance my route knowledge and route learning but also bring new ideas forward to help others.

Any experiences good or bad I would love to hear!!

Speaking purely as a driver on Chiltern, when we had to learn Old Oak Common we had a training package that was put together by one of our trainers and a Driver Standards Manager. This consisted of a set of track plans which show the basics (Speeds, Signals, Junctions etc), also we had a sort of photographic walkthrough so we could see signal by signal which routes were available to us and signal aspects that were needed. After learning the route we were then examined on a drive through with a competent DSM.

Example of Track Plan

Example Of Briefing.

Hope this helps you.....

 

[bristolrell244]

Thanks for the reply! This seems pretty much the norm. Over here would issue the same in the event of resignallibg etc.

Apart from the usual questions during assessments (ie areas of low adhesion, multi SPAD signals etc). Do you have any further assessment of your route knowledge? Or is it a case of, your passed out and off you go?

 

[t_star2001uk]

We have periodic rides where we have to demonstrate that we handle trains in a safe manner. During these rides a DSM may ask questions or just observe. We use a system where assesments are a continuous ongoing program. So rather than having a rules exam every 2 years it is now done on a yearly basis.