Wednesday, August 27, 2008

Train Station Staff

What is the work like?

As the member of a team of train station staff, you would deal with customers and perform other tasks on the station platforms.

Your duties would include:

* selling and checking tickets
* making sure that passengers get on and off the train safely
* helping to load and unload luggage
* signalling the guard or driver to depart
* updating message displays showing passenger information
* making passenger announcements
* operating CCTV cameras
* giving out information on services, routes, train times and delays.

In smaller stations, you may have other tasks, such as cleaning or clearing snow and ice off platforms during the winter.
What qualifications and experience will employers look for?

You can apply directly to train operating companies or Network Rail for trainee positions. Employers could ask for some GCSEs or equivalent qualifications. You may be tested on your maths and communication skills at job interviews.

You would also have to pass a medical examination, including tests for fitness levels, eyesight, colour vision and hearing. The safety of rail passengers is critically important, and operating companies have a rigid policy on drug and alcohol abuse. You could be tested for drugs or alcohol at any time during work.

Experience of working with the public in a retail or customer service environment could give you an advantage when applying for jobs.

You may be able to get into this job through an Apprenticeship scheme with a train operating company. The range of Apprenticeships available in your area will depend on the local jobs market and the types of skills employers need from their workers. For more information on Apprenticeships, visit www.apprenticeships.org.uk.

See the GoSkills website for more details about rail transport careers and contacts for train operating companies.

#What further training and development can I do?

You would usually start your job with a short induction course covering:

* company rules and procedures
* safety issues
* customer service
* timetables and fares.

You would then develop your skills by working alongside experienced station staff on the platform, in the ticket office and in the information centre.

You could work towards NVQ Level 2 in Rail Transport Operations (Passenger Services), or NVQ levels 2 and 3 in Customer Service.

Where can I go for more information?


GoSkills
Concorde House
Trinity Park
Solihull
Birmingham
B37 7UQ
Tel: 0121 635 5520


Network Rail
40 Melton Street
London
NW1 2EE
Tel: 020 7557 8000


If you would like to discuss your career options with a learning adviser at learndirect Careers Advice, call 0800 100 900


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