Apprentice Trainee Train Driver (3299)

Govia Thameslink Railway; Greater London; On-site; GBP 36,000 - 73,000; Full time

Job summary

A major train operating company in Greater London is seeking a Train Driver to provide exceptional customer service and ensure passenger safety. The role offers comprehensive training and a competitive starting salary of £36,072, potentially rising to £72,749 upon full qualification. Benefits include 24 days of annual leave, a pension scheme, and free travel across the network. Applicants must be adaptable, eager to learn, and live within an hour's commute from key depots. Closing date for applications is 14th December 2025.

Benefits

24 days annual leave

Excellent pension scheme

Free travel across our network

75% discounts with other train operators

Career development support

Regular health checks

Qualifications

• Strong communication skills and a passion for helping people.
• Adaptable and eager to learn.
• Must be at least 20 years old when training begins.

Responsibilities

• Provide excellent customer service to thousands of passengers.
• Ensure customers reach their destinations safely.
• Adhere to safety-critical procedures and work unsociable hours.
• Live less than 1 hour from either London Bridge or London Victoria Depot.

Job description

At GTR, we believe that a diverse team makes us stronger. We welcome people from all backgrounds and encourage women and individuals from underrepresented groups to apply. Our inclusive culture ensures that everyone can thrive and succeed.

Do you want a rewarding careerwith excellent prospects?

Do you have strong communication skills and a passion for helping people?

Are you adaptable, eager to learn and ready for a challenge?

What will the role involve?

• Comprehensive Training: Within 18 months you will be ready to take the lead on the tracks. Your training will include structured classroom sessions, advanced simulator practice and personalised driving lessons.
• Work‑Life Balance: You will work 35 hours across four days each week. Your days off will be scheduled in advance so you can plan family time and other commitments with confidence.
• Customer Service: You will provide excellent service to thousands of passengers every day, keeping them informed and supported throughout their journey.
• Safety: You will play a vital role in ensuring customers reach their destinations safely and on time.
• Responsibility: You will understand that the role involves extended periods of working alone, adhering to safety‑critical procedures that demand a high level of responsibility and commitment, as well as working unsociable hours.
• Proximity: To be able to fulfil the role, we require you to live less than 1 hour from either London Bridge or London Victoria Depot.

What do we offer?

• Competitive Salary: Starting at £36,072 and rising to £72,749 once fully qualified. Existing GTR candidates would start on the entry salary regardless of their current remuneration.
• Generous Benefits: 24 days annual leave, an excellent pension scheme, free travel across our network and 75% discounts with other train operators.
• Career Development: We will support you to grow your skills and progress your career.
• Health and Wellbeing: Regular health checks to help you stay fit and well while working with us.

What happens next?

Our recruitment process includes online tests followed by nationally recognised assessments. If successful, any offer of employment is subject to a full driver medical, which includes passing hearing, sight and colour vision tests. Part of being successfully hired means enrolling onto the Level 3 Train Driver Apprenticeship. The apprenticeship is coupled with the Train Driver Training and will enable you to learn and hone all the necessary knowledge, skills and behaviours required to become a competent train driver. Upon successful completion of your training, you will also receive a nationally recognised qualification.

Please note: Due to safety regulations, you must be at least 20 years old when you begin training.

Closing date

Closing date will be Sunday 14th December 2025 at 23.45, no late applications will be considered.