Apprenticeship Assessment

Train Driver Level 3 (ST0645)

Rail Professional Development (RPD) provides independent Apprenticeship Assessments for the Train Driver Level 3 apprenticeship (ST0645)

RPD provides high-quality, cost-efficient services, supported by experienced and qualified assessors and robust policies. Their focus on fairness, reliability, and customer service ensures apprentices meet nationally recognised standards while maximising value for employers and training providers.

How the Train Driver Apprenticeship Assessment works?

Assessments take place during the gateway to completion and must be completed within three months. We assess apprentices against the published plan using three methods.

1. First section: Online Test

Fifty multiple choice questions across Safety and Security and Driving. Assessment time one hour forty minutes.

MCQ 1hr 40m

2. Second section: Observation

Observation of planned, degraded and emergency working. Around two hours with assessor questions. Real work for planned tasks and simulation for degraded and emergency scenarios.

Workplace 2hr

3. Third section: Professional Discussion

Structured discussion with the independent assessor that explores knowledge, skills and behaviours. Around one hour.

Interview 1hr

Why choose RPD

Quality you can trust – licensed assessors, robust materials and strong internal quality assurance.
Straightforward delivery – clear booking, scheduling and communication from gateway to results.
Cost efficient – pricing below the funding cap with no surprises.
Independent and fair – separation from training delivery and consistent application of the plan.

What is included

Assessment booking and coordination
Assessor briefings and apprentice information packs
Online test setup and invigilation arrangements
Observation planning and site coordination
Professional discussion delivery
L3 certification liaison

Preparing for gateway

Please ensure these prerequisites have been covered before you book:

English and maths at Level 2 achieved
Employer, provider and apprentice agree readiness
Valid Train Driver Licence and Certificate
Portfolio and records prepared as required

EPA policies and useful links

All Our Services

Interested in this service or need more information?

Frequently asked questions

Where do assessments take place?

Apprenticeship assessments can take place at any suitable location within your network, or alternatively we would be happy to welcome you to our assessment centre.

How long does Apprenticeship Assessment take?

Apprenticeship assessments take approximately, no longer than 5 hours this includes adequate time to settle in and rest breaks.

What if an apprentice requires reasonable adjustments or special consideration?

Should an apprentice require any adjustment or special consideration their employer organisation can submit an application for review and approval.Further information can be found within information above.