How to become Train conductor
You can get into this job through:
- a college course
- an apprenticeship
- working towards this role
- applying directly
College
You could do a college course like a Level 2 Certificate in Customer Service, which would teach you some of the general skills you need. This may help when you apply for jobs.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 2 or more GCSEs at grades 9 to 3 (A* to D), or equivalent, for a level 2 course
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Apprenticeship
You may be able to get into this career by completing a passenger transport onboard and station team member intermediate apprenticeship with a train operating company.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- some GCSEs, usually including English and maths, or equivalent, for an intermediate apprenticeship
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Work
You may be able to move into this job after first working as a member of the platform or ticketing staff at a train station.
Direct Application
There are no set entry qualifications if you want to apply directly to train operating companies, although employers will expect you to have a good standard of English and maths.
If selected for interview, companies will usually test you on your maths, communication, and customer service skills.
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Career tips
Experience of working with the public in retail or customer service could give you an advantage. It will also help if you have good knowledge of UK geography and the rail network.
Further information
You can find out more about train operating companies through the Rail Delivery Group.