In a drive to increase the number of women working for the company, South Western Railway has launched a new recruitment campaign with a video that features three of its women drivers sharing their insights into the benefits of their roles and the career opportunities available

Currently, only 8% of South Western Railway train drivers are women, which is in line with the national average. To increase their representation, an application process will soon be opened for vacancies in Farnham, Fratton, Waterloo, and Weymouth.

Candidates are not expected to have any previous rail experience, as a comprehensive training programme will equip them with the skills, knowledge, and practical experience to help during their training.

Training will be at South Western Railway’s campus in Basingstoke, where candidates will be expected to complete various training milestones, including a minimum of 225 hours of driving accompanied by a Driving Instructor. Training will last for 18 months until trainees become qualified drivers.

South Western Railway also participates in industry-wide training programmes, including ‘Routes into Rail’ designed to inspire the next generation of rail professionals.

It also hosts a Women Drivers Network that provides access to networking opportunities and forums that pursue the career development of women in the rail industry.

Applications to become new trainee train drivers are always much sought after, and because of the large number of applications, the application process can close fairly quickly.

Anyone wishing to apply should click here to register for job alerts on the FirstGroup careers page.

When these and further vacancies for driver roles at other depots arise, registered applicants will be notified.

Within the last year, both Greater Anglia and Govia Thameslink Railway have also run campaigns to recruit more women drivers.

Released as part of the recruitment drive, the new video aims to encourage women to consider joining the railway for a fulfilling career.

In the video, three women drivers – Gemma, Yasel and Sally – share their experiences, career journeys, and personal and professional benefits of becoming a driver.

Gemma was previously a Guard, and before that she worked in the NHS. She says she finds the railway like no other place to work, and opportunities are also available to those without previous rail experience.

Yesel came to South Western Railway from a background in quality control and mechanics. She says that train driving is a fulfilling career offering the flexibility to make it easier for her to plan family occasions, holidays and childcare.

Sally joined South Western Railway after a career driving London buses, and is one of 11 women drivers based at Wimbledon depot.

She was the first person to drive one of the new Arterio trains and is now a a Driver Instructor, training the next generation of drivers.

“It’s more than just a job, it’s a career with lots of different opportunities. I’m now a Driver Instructor, which has been one of the most memorable accomplishments of my career so far”.“It’s more than just a job, it’s a career with lots of different opportunities. I’m now a Driver Instructor, which has been one of the most memorable accomplishments of my career so far”.

Driver Instructor Sally

“Our people are our greatest asset, and we’re committed to fostering a more diverse and inclusive organisation, where everyone is recognised and represented. We want to encourage applications from all sections of the community. By opening doors to more women, we gain a wider talent pool, fresh perspectives and experience to help shape the industry for the future.

“Our latest recruitment campaign showcases our inclusive, flexible workplace culture, the benefits and the development opportunities available – no matter where people are in their career journey. If you’ve ever wondered about working in rail, take the leap and join us on this exciting journey.”

Fraser Dawson, SWR’s Recruitment Business Partner