Trainee Train Driver - Contract length

[BiscuitMan]

I just wondered if there is an industry standard for length of time for a Trainee Train Drivers contract?
I am aware that DB Cargos is 3 years, but heard that GBRf's is 5 years. Just wondered if there is an industry standard?

Ta

 

[Eccles1983]

I don't get the question.

Do you mean minimum length or period of probation.

There is no minimum. Once you are in you are in as long as you play nice.

But they can withdraw employment during your probation period which is usually 12 months.

 

[4F89]

I was a trainee for less than a year. Once qualified, I was qualified.

 

[Carl98k]

They mean how long you’re tied in for. GBRf have a 5 year return of service after training. This is to cover the costs of training. If you leave before this time you will have to pay back a percentage of the training costs.

 

[MostlyHarmless]

They mean how long you’re tied in for. GBRf have a 5 year return of service after training. This is to cover the costs of training. If you leave before this time you will have to pay back a percentage of the training costs.

Many TOCs seem to have something similar these days - GWR certainly do

 

[Carl98k]

Many TOCs seem to have something similar these days - GWR certainly do

Can’t really blame them to be fair. It’s to stop people getting a foot in the door then leaving for better T&Cs

 

[Jlob2804]

I was told at DMI SWR is 4 years.

 

[Atishyou]

I just wondered if there is an industry standard for length of time for a Trainee Train Drivers contract?
I am aware that DB Cargos is 3 years, but heard that GBRf's is 5 years. Just wondered if there is an industry standard?

Ta

DB's was 5 years. Not sure if it's been reduced to 3 years now.

 

[Eccles1983]

Gotcha.

I've worked for different TOC's and neither had anything like that, but a specified notice period.

 

[66701GBRF]

Can’t really blame them to be fair. It’s to stop people getting a foot in the door then leaving for better T&Cs

I agree with that point of view, however some require you to pay back even if you leave the railway altogether for any reason.

 

[dk1]

I remember being asked this question when interviewed for a driving position with Anglia Railways in 1998. I of course agreed & had no plans to move away but in the end the union quashed any such rule as I was already an employee. Not sure if those off the street had to sign up.

 

[Sly Sloth]

Some tocs add into the contract how much of the training costs you’d be obliged to pay back to them as compensation should you leave