Apprentice Train Driver

Role: Apprentice Train Driver Location: Aylesbury Contract Type: Permanent Salary: £33,857.00 per annum

Ready to put your future on the right track?

Chiltern Railways is recruiting Apprentice Train Drivers for our April 2027 training schools at Aylesbury station. Successful candidates must be prepared to travel to and from our Training Academy in Banbury for the first six months of the programme (there may also be a need to travel to other locations from time to time). Following the completion of academy-based training, you will continue your practical training and development at your appointed depot.

Whether you’re leaving education, changing careers, returning to work, or looking for a new challenge, train driving could offer the rewarding and long-term career you’ve been looking for.

You don’t need previous railway experience. We’re looking for people with the right attitude, a commitment to safety, and a willingness to learn.

A career for everyone

At Chiltern Railways, we believe talent comes from all backgrounds. We’re committed to building a workforce that reflects the diverse communities we serve and particularly welcome applications from women, ethnic minority groups, people with disabilities, and anyone who may not have previously considered a career in rail.

Train driving isn’t about where you’ve come from, it’s about your ability to learn, stay focused, make safe decisions, and take pride in delivering a great service for our customers.

We welcome applications from individuals who have completed secondary education and are interested in building a career on the railway.

Although the minimum age for train driver licensing is 18, you can apply and be eligible to join our Talent Pool from the age of 17 years and 6 months. You must be 18 or over to start your training, and we’ll progress your application once you meet this requirement.

At Chiltern Railways, our drivers help thousands of customers travel safely and reliably every day, connecting communities from London Marylebone to destinations across Buckinghamshire, Oxfordshire, Warwickshire and the West Midlands.

What you’ll experience Earn while you learn

Our structured 12–18-month Driver Apprenticeship Programme combines classroom learning, practical experience and support from experienced Driver Instructors.

A career with real opportunities

Train driving is a respected profession offering excellent long-term career prospects, responsibility, development and job security.

Support every step of the way

From your first day, you’ll be supported by experienced colleagues, mentors and instructors who are committed to helping you succeed.

Work that matters

Every day you’ll play an important role in helping people get to work, education, appointments, family and friends safely and reliably.

What we’re looking for

We’re interested in people who are:

• At least 17 years and 6 months old to apply

• Reliable, responsible and committed to safety

• Able to remain focused and make good decisions

• Willing to learn and complete a demanding apprenticeship programme

• Comfortable working shifts, including nights, weekends and bank holidays

• Able to travel to and from work independently

• Living within 60 minutes of the appointed depot

You must also not have failed psychometric testing with any Train Operating Company within the last six months.

Remember, you don’t need previous railway experience. Many successful train drivers have joined us from retail, customer service, education, healthcare, hospitality, the armed forces and many other industries.

What the role involves

• Preparing trains for service through safety and performance checks

• Driving trains safely and professionally across the Chiltern network

• Working closely with colleagues, signallers and control teams

• Maintaining high levels of concentration and professionalism

• Making safe decisions in a dynamic operational environment

• Delivering a safe and reliable service for our customers

The recruitment process

• Application review and postcode eligibility check

• Online safety and rules-based testing

• Interview

• Medical assessment, including drug and alcohol screening

Belong at Chiltern Railways

We’re committed to creating an inclusive workplace where everyone feels welcome, valued and able to thrive.

If you require any reasonable adjustments during the recruitment process, we’ll be happy to support you.

This is more than just a job—it’s the start of a career that can take you further