Train operator Greater Anglia has taken a new approach to recruitment by hosting an online webinar for members of the public to learn about what it takes to become a train driver.

The webinar took place on Wednesday, 23rd October, and applications to become a train driver will open tomorrow, Friday, 1st November.

It was organised by Greater Anglia’s recruitment team to provide prospective applicants with an insight into the recruitment process, what being a train driver involves, and what life is like when working for Greater Anglia.

During the webinar, participants were told about the rigorous training programme for both mainline drivers who drive trains in passenger service, and depot drivers who drive trains in and around depots and prepare them for service.

The webinar also included tales about their time driving trains for Greater Anglia told by driver manager Elizabeth Ward, and right-time (performance) manager Sarah Swanston.

They had both driven trains in their careers and they hosted a brief quiz to counter myths around the role.

Various tests and stages of applying for driver positions were explained by one of Greater Anglia’s recruitment team, whilst HR director Katy Bucknell explained employee benefits and the many employee network groups.

Applications are invited to become a trainee depot driver at Clacton, Ilford, Norwich, and Southend Victoria, and a trainee mainline driver at Bishop’s Stortford, Cambridge, Clacton, Colchester, Ilford, Ipswich, London Liverpool Street, Norwich, and Southend Victoria.

A full list of the latest vacancies can be found over on the Greater Anglia website at https://careers.greateranglia.co.uk as well as further information about Greater Anglia‘s recruitment of depot and mainline drivers

In 2023, Greater Anglia offered young adults the chance to take part in a pre-employment and study scheme to help them to build the skills and experience sought after by employers. The company also held an event at the company’s training academy to show women employees the tests and skills that are needed to become a train driver.

“This is the first time we have hosted an online webinar that gave prospective candidates a real insight into a job at Greater Anglia from colleagues who have first-hand experience.
“Our drivers work all hours to ensure that customers across the East of England can get to their destination safely at all times of the year and in all weathers. The railway is a great place to work, with many benefits.”

Dawn Robinson, Greater Anglia’s Head of Talent, Resourcing and Development