Train operator East Midlands Railway (EMR) is recruiting apprentice train drivers at its depots in Nottingham and Derby.

The apprenticeships are open to people of all ages and backgrounds, but applicants must be over 21.

The programme lasts 12-months and combines theory and practical work in the classroom with the development of practical skills covering activities such as cab rides and signal box visits.

Classroom instruction will be in world-class facilities at EMR’s training academy. Here, classroom learning is enhanced by state-of-the-art Virtual Reality, which replicates real-life railway situations.

A cab simulator is also available, which enables apprentices to learn about driving trains in a variety of different situations and conditions, all within a safe environment.

EMR values diversity and is committed to ensuring equality across its organisation. In line with these values, it encourages applications for the roles from women, younger people, and ethnic minority groups.

Paul Griffin, Head of Drivers for EMR, started working on the railway in 1995, said: “The role of a Train Driver is unique and challenging, but it is rewarding.

“I have worked in many roles within the Driver function, from a Driver on Central Trains to a Driver Mentor and Depot Manager. I have been in my current role as Head of Drivers since August 2019.”

Kate Holden, HR Director for EMR, said: “At EMR, we currently employ just over 600 drivers and to fulfil our fleet rollout, we need drivers to operate the trains across the network.

“One of our major challenges is encouraging a more diverse driving workforce. We’ve been working to increase the number of females applying for our driver roles, with open evenings aimed specifically at women, as well as tackling the unconscious bias through blind screening.

“We encourage applications from candidates of all backgrounds and ages and we’d urge anybody interested in a career in any of these driver roles to check out our website.”

For more information, please visit the EMR website here.

The closing date for applications is Sunday, 28th November 2021.

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