Ways forward from preparation
Where the education can take you
Introduction
Train preparation training is transport education alternating school and practice. You must have an apprenticeship to complete it, and it is in the apprenticeship that you really learn the work.
Workplaces
As a train preparer you can work for train operators and railway companies running both passenger and freight trains. Work is found where trains are prepared marshalled and inspected before departure.
Passenger and freight trains
Some work mostly with passenger trains, others with freight. With freight, loading and unloading is often involved and work with cargo. Both are based on the same core: safe coupling, safe brakes and thorough inspection.
| Direction | Typical work | The core |
|---|---|---|
| Passenger train | Preparation and shunting at stations | Brakes, coupling, control |
| Freight train | Preparation, loading, unloading | Load, securing, control |
| Depot/workshop | Preparation and ranking at the depot | Systematic checks |
What makes you good at it
It is reliability that counts. The person who always does their checks properly, keeps a cool head and works safely close to heavy vehicles is worth gold in an industry where mistakes can cost lives.