Who are we

First Rail London (FRL) is the train operating company responsible for running the London Overground network under a concession agreement with Transport for London (TfL). The concession began in May 2026.

First Rail London is part of FirstGroup, one of the leading rail operators and one of the largest bus operators in the UK.  FirstGroup operates services throughout the UK and Ireland, with over 30,000 employees providing services that make travel smoother and life easier.  FirstGroup works hard to reduce its impact on the environment, introducing cleaner and more environmentally responsible methods of transport.

About the job

Join us as a Trainee Train Driver and become a key part of our operation, delivering safe, reliable and punctual journeys for our customers. This apprenticeship offers a comprehensive 35–39-week training programme, guiding you towards becoming a fully qualified driver with a nationally recognised qualification.

What we're looking for

We want individuals who are committed to safety and focused on delivering great customer service. To succeed, you'll need to:

• Bring a positive, can‑do attitude
• Live within 1 hour of the New Cross Gate depot
• Commit fully to the 35–39 week training programme.

About the location

New Cross Gate Depot – applicants must live within 1 hour of the depot.

Hiring process

We expect strong interest in this role, so here's what you can expect at each stage:

• Application Review: We'll assess your CV and initial assessments and get in touch if we need any additional details
• OPC Assessments: You'll be invited to complete rules and safety tests
• Interviews: Successful candidates will progress to a series of interviews
• Safety Critical Medical: A medical assessment is required as part of the selection process
• Offer & Onboarding: If you're successful, we'll make a formal offer and begin your onboarding journey.

The reward

• Free Travel for you and a nominated person at your address on TfL Network - this alone is worth a potential total of £5,200 per annum
• 75% discount off season tickets and leisure travel on other Train Operating Companies
• Discounts on European rail services after 1 year of service
• First Xclusives – a benefits portal offering a wide range of benefits and discounts
• Employee Assistance Programme - 24hr helpline, covering a multitude of subjects.

Please note this advert may close early if a high volume of applications is received.

We all belong at First Rail London. FirstGroup's vision is to provide an inclusive environment for all colleagues, across its group of businesses, ensuring all candidates have an equal opportunity to access meaningful employment.

We value our differences such as age, gender, LGBTQIA+, ethnicity, religion, and disability. We maintain a zero tolerance towards any form of prejudice towards our colleagues, customers, and future talent.

We celebrate and encourage diversity of thought, progressive ways of working and seeing all our colleagues grow and thrive.

We review all roles and job descriptions to ensure they are accessible and, where possible, we support and provide flexible working options; we recommend that you refer to each vacancy description for further details.

If you require additional support to complete your application due to a disability or neurodivergent condition, for example, dyslexia, dyspraxia, or autism, please follow the links below.  We encourage you to share any additional needs you may require so we can provide a fair and equal process for all who apply.

https://exceptionalindividuals.com/neurodiversity/

https://www.healthassured.org/blog/neurodiversity/