• Our booking engine at tickets.railforums.co.uk (powered by TrainSplit) helps support the running of the forum with every ticket purchase! Find out more and ask any questions/give us feedback in this thread!

Assessments & Medicals discussion

Sponsor Post - registered members do not see these adverts; click here to register, or click here to log in
R

RailUK Forums

crettybruh14

New Member
Joined
25 Oct 2023
Messages
2
Location
Ireland
Hello. Alpha here,
Finished my OPC Psychometric tests a few days ago. (IÉ, The Irish TOC uses OPC, A UK based Testing company).

There were 3 tests to complete.
Rules Acquisition
SCAAT
Situational Judgement Test.

I believe I did okay on Rules acquisition but ran out of time on the last sheet (which had 3 questions) I was on the last question and had finished both of the other questions on this sheet (I think there was 15 sheets)

On SCAAT I did;
1st sheet (find and cross out a single target letter) Around 20+ lines with no omissions that I was aware of.

2nd sheet (find and cross out 2 target letters) Around 20+ lines with no omissions (again that I'm aware of)

3rd sheet (find and cross out a target letter, cross out the first letter of each line and each subsequent one of those letters within the line) about 25ish With 4-7 omissions that im aware of. It felt like I had a longer timer on this one.

On the third sheet I went back on myself on one of the lines, I forgot to click the first letter on the line.
When I realised this I instinctively went back and clicked it even though I was a letter past that point. I imagine that's counted as 2 omissions.

As a result of this I deduce I got 4-7 omissions total that I'm aware of. There could've been more. I had my laptop hooked up to a 42" tv via HDMI to make it a bit less torturous for myself.

The Situational Judgement Test (Which had me rank examples of responses to certain situations from first choice to fourth choice)
I'm not fussed about because I'd make the same choices again if I was faced with these situations.
(However, I did lean towards prioritising answers that involved me sacrificing my personal or family life for the sake of work where I deemed applicable and practical).

I'm not going to ask what you all think is a passing grade for any of these, that's a secret for a reason and I respect that.
I just want to hear some anecdotes on how you felt you did on similar tests and how many omissions you feel like you all got.

I won't hear back from OPC for a few weeks I imagine so any words from you lovely people to make me feel like I'm not so alone in this would be a godsend. Doing these online tests feels quite lonely.
The sift in Ireland typically reduces 20,000 applicants to roughly 50 and the standard is very very high I imagine so I'm not really gonna beat myself up about it.

I'm just looking to hear some similar stories to lighten things up while I wait.
This is something I've wanted do since 5 years old and I'm delighted to have pushed myself to attempt this to begin with. Feel free to tell me to calm down and stop being such a wet flannel.
P.S: This is my first thread on railforums so forgive me if I've popped this in the wrong place completely.

Edit: Thanks to the mods/admins for moving this for me. (sorry lol).

Cheers lads and lasses,
Alpha from Ireland.
 
Last edited:
Joined
3 Sep 2022
Messages
120
Location
London
Honestly, try not to think about it. The more you think about it, the worse you seem to believe you done.

I've done assessments where I walked out the door knowing I done well and have passed, but then you got to wait for confirmation.

By the time you've arrived home you've gone from knowing you done well to questioning that one question that was a little tricky.. the next day that one question is two and so on until you're wondering if you failed.

The reality is, it is all wasted energy. You done your best and can only await the outcome, once you know the outcome you can then start to understand where you may have gone wrong, if thats even the case.

Or you pass and realise you've worried for weeks over nothing.

The hardest part is not thinking about it, but I say all this, and I check into this forum about 5x a day to soak up information that might help me in the future.
 

crettybruh14

New Member
Joined
25 Oct 2023
Messages
2
Location
Ireland
Honestly, try not to think about it. The more you think about it, the worse you seem to believe you done.

I've done assessments where I walked out the door knowing I done well and have passed, but then you got to wait for confirmation.

By the time you've arrived home you've gone from knowing you done well to questioning that one question that was a little tricky.. the next day that one question is two and so on until you're wondering if you failed.

The reality is, it is all wasted energy. You done your best and can only await the outcome, once you know the outcome you can then start to understand where you may have gone wrong, if thats even the case.

Or you pass and realise you've worried for weeks over nothing.

The hardest part is not thinking about it, but I say all this, and I check into this forum about 5x a day to soak up information that might help me in the future.
This response speaks absolute numbers to me.
It's fairly reminiscent of secondary school exams which I didn't pay much attention to so I only experienced the feeling to a certain degree.

The difference is the value I'm attaching to all of this I guess. I want to do this and I haven't been sure of something I've wanted to do until this point.
I've done electrical work, groundworking on building sites, driving dumpers on sites and it always felt like a means to an end. The need for this job speaks to a much younger version of myself and it feels right to me.

Your words are certainly taking a load off here for sure, that's an understatement. I'm gonna just brush through this thread for the next few weeks and gather a few opinions while preparing for what I'll need to prepare for if I pass while focusing more on other aspects of life. Que sera sera I suppose.

I appreciate this response as it's making me look at the situation in a much different light.
Thanks again for taking the time to get me back on track (pun intended)
Cheers
 
Joined
3 Sep 2022
Messages
120
Location
London
This response speaks absolute numbers to me.
It's fairly reminiscent of secondary school exams which I didn't pay much attention to so I only experienced the feeling to a certain degree.

The difference is the value I'm attaching to all of this I guess. I want to do this and I haven't been sure of something I've wanted to do until this point.
I've done electrical work, groundworking on building sites, driving dumpers on sites and it always felt like a means to an end. The need for this job speaks to a much younger version of myself and it feels right to me.

Your words are certainly taking a load off here for sure, that's an understatement. I'm gonna just brush through this thread for the next few weeks and gather a few opinions while preparing for what I'll need to prepare for if I pass while focusing more on other aspects of life. Que sera sera I suppose.

I appreciate this response as it's making me look at the situation in a much different light.
Thanks again for taking the time to get me back on track (pun intended)
Cheers

Not a problem, I wish you all the best.

The hardest part about the recruitment process I have found is the time, the time spent waiting for responses or the next phase to begin.

Due to there being so many applicants and the recruitment teams having to bring down the high numbers, it all just takes time.

Its very difficult, as once you identify this career being what you really want, you tend to think about it daily, every email notification I get I check straight away which is frustrating when my current role has many come through a day and the TOC emails are very rare and only when necessary.

Enjoy the process though, stick around on this forum, its a long game, even if you dont get this one (I'm still waiting to hear back from the first one I applied for a year ago with a DMI), you've identified its for you and making steps towards achieving your goal.
 

Lanypauk

Member
Joined
10 Aug 2022
Messages
14
Location
Glasgow
Hello,

I failed 1 of the computerised tests but passed the other 2. I was wondering if anyone knows if I have to resit them all again at my 2nd attempt or just the one I failed?

Also, any advice on the perception test is welcome
 

ratbag

Member
Joined
22 May 2019
Messages
66
Hello,

I failed 1 of the computerised tests but passed the other 2. I was wondering if anyone knows if I have to resit them all again at my 2nd attempt or just the one I failed?

Also, any advice on the perception test is welcome

Which one did you fail?
 

Samzino

Established Member
Joined
5 Dec 2020
Messages
1,218
Location
London
The perception test - I think I might have been clicking when things weren’t there, thinking I was being on the safe side but I don’t know for certain what let me down
"Never assume" is the lesson there and highly certain to why you'd fail it. Only put what you actually know you saw not what you thought you saw.

Assumptions can lead to in certain circumstances a breach of safety or close to.
 

Lanypauk

Member
Joined
10 Aug 2022
Messages
14
Location
Glasgow
"Never assume" is the lesson there and highly certain to why you'd fail it. Only put what you actually know you saw not what you thought you saw.

Assumptions can lead to in certain circumstances a breach of safety or close to.
Definitely a lesson learnt and won’t make any assumptions next time!
 

Fred_Scott

New Member
Joined
25 Oct 2023
Messages
4
Location
USA
Hi all,

I've been following the recent discussions on the assessments with great interest. It's really insightful to hear about everyone's experiences with the different tests and the waiting times for responses. For those who've recently completed any of the tests and are in the waiting phase, I totally understand the mix of anticipation and nervousness you must be feeling.

@Lanypauk, regarding your question about the perception test, I think it's quite common to overthink and second-guess your performance. It's good to hear that you've taken the lesson to heart about not making assumptions. I've found that the best approach is to focus on accuracy over speed and to trust your instincts without overcomplicating your responses.

For those who've been through similar assessments, how did you manage the stress of waiting for the results? Did anyone find any particular strategies helpful for staying calm and collected during this period?

And to anyone who's preparing for a retest or their first attempt, remember that each test is an opportunity to learn and improve. Keep a positive mindset, and don't hesitate to reach out if you need advice or support.

Best of luck to everyone waiting for results or preparing for upcoming assessments!
 

12LDA28C

Established Member
Joined
14 Oct 2022
Messages
3,431
Location
The back of beyond
And to anyone who's preparing for a retest or their first attempt, remember that each test is an opportunity to learn and improve. Keep a positive mindset, and don't hesitate to reach out if you need advice or support.

Best of luck to everyone waiting for results or preparing for upcoming assessments!

Welcome to the forums Fred. Remember that anyone who is preparing for their second attempt at OPC testing will most likely not have any more 'opportunities to learn and improve' as you put it, as two fails generally means no more chances at becoming a driver.
 

elle1630

Member
Joined
7 Mar 2023
Messages
8
Location
Chelmsford
Hi everyone Ive got my resit for the stage 2 test I failed, the WAVF test. When I failed they told me I was close to passing. I'm not sure if cause I wear glasses or what, but the test really plays with my eyes. Any tips or pointers?
 

Samzino

Established Member
Joined
5 Dec 2020
Messages
1,218
Location
London
Hi everyone Ive got my resit for the stage 2 test I failed, the WAVF test. When I failed they told me I was close to passing. I'm not sure if cause I wear glasses or what, but the test really plays with my eyes. Any tips or pointers?
It's really a test of ability at the end of the day. You can practice with either bought tests or a PowerPoint that has a grey square on one slide and a black square on the other that randomly changes and do practice reaction and concentration to that for 30mins.
 
Last edited:

azOOOOOma

Member
Joined
16 Mar 2023
Messages
114
Location
Durham
Hello my lovelies. In a few weeks time I have an assessment for a TM at LNER. I will do the SCAAT and RAAT test. Super excited but super scared too!

I’m awaiting practice material but I want to get a head start so I’ve purchased the practice booklet.

Can anyone let me know is the test all three (numbers, letters and symbols) or is it a specific type only?

Thanks.
Laura x
 

benny91

Member
Joined
19 Jan 2023
Messages
25
Location
Berwick Upon Tweed
Hey Laura!

I've never done the SCAAT, but I did the RAAT recently. It's super straightforward and nothing to stress about. A series of passages that already contain the answers to all questions. Take your time, stay calm, do not overthink. Read the whole passage before answering.

Stay frosty :)
 

azOOOOOma

Member
Joined
16 Mar 2023
Messages
114
Location
Durham
I think it is just the regular SCAAT as far as I know.

Hey Laura!

I've never done the SCAAT, but I did the RAAT recently. It's super straightforward and nothing to stress about. A series of passages that already contain the answers to all questions. Take your time, stay calm, do not overthink. Read the whole passage before answering.

Stay frosty :)
Thank you hun for the reply. I guess I’ve got a few weeks to practice and then it’ll be a base of making sure i get a good sleep the night before :) x
 

throwaway1989

Member
Joined
11 Feb 2023
Messages
18
Location
Yorkshire
The Group Bourdon practice test software that's stickied on here has the option to select SCAAT. Not sure how life-like it is to the real test though but could be some good practice material.
 

Iamanoob

Member
Joined
17 Mar 2020
Messages
109
Location
Glasgow
Did the SCAAT test 3 years ago after practicing with the Group Bourdon program. I found it easier to print off some of the tests and work through it that way rather than on a PC and it helped so much that I found the actual test was easier than the practice. Accuracy over speed always.
 

throwaway1989

Member
Joined
11 Feb 2023
Messages
18
Location
Yorkshire
Did the SCAAT test 3 years ago after practicing with the Group Bourdon program. I found it easier to print off some of the tests and work through it that way rather than on a PC and it helped so much that I found the actual test was easier than the practice. Accuracy over speed always.
Is it quite accurate to the actual test in that after the first few sheets they'll ask you to mark 2 shapes, then the first shape on each line and a constant shape?

I've been practising the GBT on the off chance a driver vacancy ever arises near me but was never sure if the SCAAT test was true to the actual test that sense.
 

RogerDoger

Member
Joined
17 Sep 2023
Messages
29
Location
Buckinghamshire
Hello Everyone

I have both Parts 1 and 2 OPC tests at Watford next week. I have the info pack that was sent out with the invitation, but wanted to know how best to prep for the day. Obviously, I have limited time now so wanted to focus on areas that are harder to pass.

I have been practicing some Bourdon Dot test papers but is there anything else you would recommend I spend time on prepping for the day?

All the best

R
 

Double07

Member
Joined
21 Aug 2023
Messages
11
Location
Greater London
Hello guys. This is Steven. I’m new here so I’m very skeptical about asking you guys for help and advice. I got myself a Stage 1 for c2c trainee train stunt/driver, and I would like to ask you guys about the Stage 1 assessment in which they want me to do:
  • Group Bourdon
  • Test of Everyday Attention for Occupational Assessment (Tea-Occ)
  • Trainability for Rules and Procedures Part 1 (TRP1)
  • Trainability for Rules and Procedures Part 2 (TRP2)
After I passed this, I go to Stage 2 and the following is:

  • WAFV vigilance test – test your reaction skills
  • ATAVT perception test – test memory
  • 2 hand coordination test – test your ability
  • Situational Judgement Exercise – behaviour test
  • Multi-Modal Interview – structured face to face interview

And stage 3:

· A train driver medical including ECG and Drugs and Alcohol screening

· Disclosure Barring System check (CRB)

· Employment reference checks

· Right to work in the UK checks

Forgive me for being the pain in the arse and I don’t like to overthink things but is there any possible chance for a good positive advice please?
 

Blowin

New Member
Joined
18 Nov 2023
Messages
1
Location
South west
Hi all
I Have just started my application to join GWR, where can i find practice assessment papers please
 

RogerDoger

Member
Joined
17 Sep 2023
Messages
29
Location
Buckinghamshire
Hello Everyone

I sat my OPC tests for Chiltern the other day and rather frustratingly failed the WAVF (grey box test). It took me by surprise to be honest as I could have sworn I did well at this. Out of the three computer tests at the time I thought this one was the easiest. I know that my clumsy hand accidentally pressed the button on one occasion when repositioning, but I didn't think one accidental activation would be enough for a fail. I am certain that I got all of the occasions that the box turned black so maybe either I wasn't quick enough to press the button or fell asleep without realising! Maybe someone could shed some light to help me for if I get another go?

Whilst on the subject of failing, will I have to reapply for a TOC in the future to get another go or would Chiltern put me through again in 6 months time? I am guessing another application?

To help others my experience of the day was as follows:

Part one

Started off with Bourdon dots test. I found this pretty easy to be honest. I had practised 1 set of 5 sheets each day over the past week or two so felt pretty relaxed. Compared to any computer version of the test or the ones that I printed at home the OPC sheets seemed a bit clearer and easier to identify the 4 dots. I had previously heard about this on this forum so I can concur that this is the case. I think on average I completed around 11 lines on each test.

I think the next part was a memory test whereby you are given an A4 bit of paper with a passage of writing on. I won't go into exact detail, but mine was about a mechanical system on a train. The invigilators play an audio reading of this A4 bit of paper and then give you either 5 or 7 mins (cannot remember) to read and make notes if you wish. The timer starts after the audio reading so you get another couple of minutes whilst this happens. Personally, I found the audio annoying and distracting and would rather have had more time to read, but I guess everyone learns differently. The passage is pretty lengthy and in a lot of detail. Pick out the bits you think may turn into questions e.g. figures, names of components, locations and procedures. I remember thinking bloody hell there is a lot of detail in this, how on earth am I supposed to remember? After the time is up the invigilator takes away the A4 passage and any notes you have made. They make you wait a few minutes before allowing you 7 minutes to answer 18 questions. I had plenty of time left over which I used to go over the questions again. Although I was pretty nervous due to the level of detail I didn't find the questions very challenging and think I got most of them correct.

The next test was the telephone directory test. Compared to the practice materials I had on this I found this pretty straightforward. You have an A3 page of telephone numbers (mine was for plumbers) You need to circle each plumber which has 2 of the same symbols next to it. E.g. 2 circles, 2 squares etc. If the symbols are different ignore and move on. Compared to the How to Become (H2B) practice materials where you have to look up a spanner, cocktail glass etc and then find the correct area code, the OPC is much easier as the whole page is the trade you are looking for so you just need to concentrate on the symbols next to each one.

The next test was the counting tones test with a mixture of high and low tones. The theory is that you are in a lift with a broken panel and each low tone represents a floor change. Ignore the high tones and only count the low tones. The first tone will always be a low tone. Again this test was pretty simple to be honest, trust your instinct as you can start doubting yourself. You hear 5 sets of tones and the longest is around 20 seconds. Some are pretty short so really not difficult.

You then combine the above two tests, although it is much easier than it sounds. They remove the high tones so all you need to do is work through the directory marking the trades with double symbols whilst counting a tone. Again when practicing with H2B I had to do all this whilst filtering out the high tones so it was much more challenging so I was pleasantly surprised.

The final test of part 1 is the cables and dials test. Personally, I found this the most difficult from part one. The invigilator on the day read out the instructions which were pretty lengthy to be honest and threw me a little. The practice materials I had used were beneficial, but a bit easier than the actual test. The OPC also include numbers on the scale and a lot of the sectors will show the same colour and you have to prioritise the lowest number first. Once you get your head around it, it isn't that difficult, but I think I felt the pressure a bit as it was different to what I expected it to be. Whilst completing every now and then I had a mind fart and had to reset myself. I only completed 31 out of 50 in the 7mins you get but passed with no issues.

Part Two

After a break, you head back into the room and you have a special keyboard and laptop set up at your desk. The first test is the WAVF (Vigilance test - Grey Box test) which ended up being my downfall. Over a period of 30mins you have to look at the screen and click a green button every time the box changes to black. The grey box repeatedly flashes on the screen and every now and then will change to black. I have to say again compared to the H2B practice test the normal grey box is a darker shade of grey so it is easy throughout the test to think it is black certainly as fatigue kicks in. Trust your instincts though as it is very clear when it goes black, but you do have long periods where it remains grey. I won't go on too much about this as I failed it as specified above so wouldn't want to give out any bad advice.

The next part was the perception test. A traffic scene flicks on your screen for 1 second (crazily short time) you then need to select what it showed e.g. pedestrians, motor vehicles, peddle bikes, traffic lights etc I have to say this felt pretty hard. After you have done a few the images start blending into one and you start doubting what you saw. I remember thinking a pedestrian crossing was seen so that must mean a road sign etc.

The final part of part two is the 2 hand coordination test. I have to say I found this the most horrible experience of the day. I know a couple of people that have failed due to being too slow and so I felt the pressure to do it as quickly as possible. The controls are hypersensitive and despite playing some PS4 games in my time, felt really unnatural. The left stick controls left and right whereas the right controls up and down. You need to move a red ball from one end of a circuit to another. The circuits are pretty similar to the practice materials they send out where you need to do it with a pen in each hand. If I am honest I was convinced I had failed this part of the test. I tried to go way too quickly and constantly touched the line causing it to beep. I think you have about 10 circuits to complete and I definitely got better as I went along, but on every circuit, I had multiple beeps and one I went massively out of the circuit! I also finished about 1-2 minutes before the other 2 in the room.

After the series of computer tests, you have to wait outside whilst they look at the results. As above I was convinced I had failed the coordination test so it was no surprise when they called me in for feedback. To my amazement, I passed the coordination test and perception and failed the WAVF which I was convinced I had done well on.

So to conclude out of the 4 people that started the day, only 2 I believe went through to the MMI. One of the candidates didn't sit part one though due to previously passing this.

Anyway sorry for the long essay, but I hope some of you will find it useful. I found this forum exceptionally helpful with the process and I am just really frustrated that it seems to have come to an end for me for now anyway.

All the best

Rog
 

12LDA28C

Established Member
Joined
14 Oct 2022
Messages
3,431
Location
The back of beyond
Whilst on the subject of failing, will I have to reapply for a TOC in the future to get another go or would Chiltern put me through again in 6 months time? I am guessing another application?

As far as Chiltern are concerned you have failed the OPC testing and are no longer in the process for this round of recruitment. They would not put you through for testing again automatically, you would need to reapply for another vacancy in future and try again.
 

RogerDoger

Member
Joined
17 Sep 2023
Messages
29
Location
Buckinghamshire
As far as Chiltern are concerned you have failed the OPC testing and are no longer in the process for this round of recruitment. They would not put you through for testing again automatically, you would need to reapply for another vacancy in future and try again.
Thank you, as I expected.

As ever thanks for being so informative

All the best

R
 

Top