Sector-wide training system adopted by tram operators

Developed by the Light Rail Safety and Standards Board, the online Learning Experience Platform (LXP) will monitor employee competencies, keep track of required certifications, and help identify the most appropriate training courses.

It also aims to provide a hub for best practice, delivering consistency across the sector while driving even higher standards in all aspects of light rail training.

LXP can also be used by networks to plan and maintain their own training programmes, and with trials underway in Birmingham, Sheffield and Edinburgh, and Blackpool due to go ‘online’ later in the year, it looks set to revolutionise learning across the sector.

Craig O’Brien, Head of Engineering Safety and Innovation at LRSSB, explained: “The system has been developed in response to feedback from stakeholders who have expressed the need for a centralised platform to help them meet their current and future training needs.

“In response, we’ve drawn on expertise from across light rail to explore the build a system that will also help to standardise competencies, identify any skills gaps, and ultimately provide another significant boost for light rail safety.”

A recent demonstration day for operators underlined the benefits of the LXP, which has the support of the Office of Rail and Road and builds on the success of a similar, but single network system introduced by Edinburgh Trams.

Marlene Pearson, Training Manager at Edinburgh Trams, has led the LMS project while on a part-time secondment to the LRSSB and said that scaling up the system had presented significant challenges.

“Meeting the needs of multiple systems has been complex, but I’m delighted that we’re now able to offer this valuable resource to tram operators across the UK, and we are expected more to sign up in the months ahead,” Marlene said.

“It offers another fantastic example of how the LRSSB working in partnership with the sector to embrace new technology for the benefit of operators, their employees and ultimately the travelling public,” she added.