Northern reveals new simulator to help train train drivers

Northern has ordered 24 of the static cab replicas which feature video footage of 610 miles of real track of Northern routes across the North of England.

The static units will complement six full-immersion, motion platform simulators, and two integrated crew training facility units that simulate passenger door control panels.

These are set to be introduced to Northern’s training academies later this year.

It is part of a ‘major transformation’ in the way that Northern trains its traincrew and will speed up the time it takes for crew to achieve their train and route competence.

Lisa Leighton, people director at Northern, said: “We have over 3,400 drivers and conductors based across our network and it’s important each and every one of them has the skills and knowledge to perform at their best.

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“This includes ensuring they have access to great training and development facilities – not just during their induction and initial training – but throughout their time with Northern.

“We’re excited to put the prototype to the test over the next few months and see the benefits it will bring to our training programme.”

Northern is expected to announce its driver and conductor recruitment plans for 2025 in the coming weeks.