HGV DRIVER TRAINING

Gatewen Training Service facilitates the delivery of professional HGV Driver Training to individuals and organisations working and operating in the transport industry. We are committed to providing high-quality training that meets the needs of our customers and helps them to achieve their goals.

Your pathway to success

Are you seeking a fulfilling and lucrative career path? If so, consider becoming an HGV driver. The HGV industry is in high demand, offering excellent earning potential and a chance to make a real difference in the world of transportation. With your HGV licence, you’ll gain access to a multitude of job opportunities, transporting essential goods across the UK and beyond.

At Gatewen Training Services we’re committed to providing high-quality, affordable training that empowers aspiring HGV drivers to achieve their goals. Our comprehensive HGV Class 2 & Class 1 licence training equips you with the skills and knowledge to operate a wide range of commercial vehicles, opening doors to a vast array of employment options.

Unparalleled Support Throughout Your HGV Journey

From the moment you begin your HGV training journey with Gatewen Training Services, you’ll receive unwavering guidance and support. Our dedicated team is committed to your success, providing personalized instruction, answering your questions, and keeping you informed of your progress every step of the way.

our commitment to you

We will:

Book your medical

Assist in applying for your provisional entitlement

Book all tests

Provide the training materials for your theory tests

Apply for your digital driving card

Provide practical training

Help you complete your initial Driver modules

testimonials

Just passed my class 2 first time with Gatewen. Would highly recommend them. My instructor, Mark, made me feel at ease as soon as I met him. Made the training stress free and enjoyable. Other instructors that I met were just as friendly and the staff in the office were very accommodating when I couldn’t make a days training. So again, thank you for helping me pass my class 2

Jess Jones

Massive thank you to all at Gatewen! All absolutely amazing! A special mention to my instructor Pete! Thanks mate couldn’t have done it without you! Thank you all again.

Zack Hazeldene

Great experience from start to finish from admin to instructors an A+ service. A big Thanks to Kevin for my Class 2 and a big Thanks to Jason for my Class 1, and thanks to all the other guys who made the experience so trouble free and entertaining. Would highly recommend Gatewen.

Lowri Williams

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HGV Training Courses

CatC

Embrace the Road to HGV Driving Success with Our Category C (HGV Class 2) Rigid Training

Embark on a rewarding career as an HGV driver by mastering the essential skills to operate rigid vehicles up to 32 tonnes with our comprehensive Category C (HGV Class 2) Rigid training program.

Why Choose HGV Class 2 Rigid Training?

Versatility and Wide Demand: The Category C (HGV Class 2) Rigid license is the most sought-after HGV license, catering to a diverse range of businesses and industries.

Unleash Your Driving Potential: Gain the expertise to navigate any rigid vehicle up to 32 tonnes, including box vans, tippers, and cranes.

Fast-Track to HGV Class 1: Since November 2021, you can directly pursue HGV Class 1 (Category C+E) without prior HGV Class 2 certification. Explore our ‘C+E Fast Track’ option for a streamlined path to Class 1.

Empower Your Future with Our Comprehensive Training

Our structured training program equips you with the theoretical knowledge and practical skills to excel as an HGV Class 2 Rigid driver:

Thorough Theoretical Knowledge: Master the essential rules of the road, vehicle maintenance, and safe driving practices.

Expert Practical Guidance: Receive personalized instruction from experienced HGV instructors, honing your driving skills in various scenarios.

DVSA-Approved Testing: Prepare for the DVSA Category C tests with confidence under the guidance of our experienced team.

Unlock a World of Opportunities

Upon successful completion of our training, you’ll be equipped to pursue a wide range of rewarding career opportunities in the ever-expanding HGV industry:

Local and National Deliveries: Transport goods across cities, towns, and villages, ensuring timely and efficient deliveries.

Construction and Infrastructure: Operate specialized HGV vehicles for construction projects, road maintenance, and infrastructure development.

Waste Management and Recycling: Transport and manage waste materials for recycling and disposal, contributing to a sustainable environment.

Take the First Step Towards HGV Driving Excellence

Enroll in our Category C (HGV Class 2) Rigid training program today and embark on a fulfilling career as a skilled HGV driver. Our expert instructors and comprehensive curriculum will equip you with the knowledge and skills to navigate the road to success.

C+E

Embark on a Journey to HGV Class 1 Mastery: Unleash Your Potential with Our Articulated Vehicle Training

Are you a seasoned HGV Class 2 driver seeking to elevate your career to the pinnacle of commercial vehicle operation? Perhaps, you’re an aspiring lorry driver eager to embark on a rewarding path and fast-track to the coveted HGV Class 1 ‘Articulated’ license, granting you command over the largest vehicles on the road.

Harnessing the power of articulated vehicles demands a mastery of skills, particularly in the realms of forward planning, defensive driving, and maneuvering with a substantial trailer. Our comprehensive training program meticulously equips you with the expertise to navigate these challenges with confidence and precision.

For HGV Class 2 License Holders:

The Category C+E training course seamlessly builds upon your existing Class 2 knowledge and skills. You’ll refine your understanding of articulated vehicle operation, emphasizing coupling and uncoupling techniques, ensuring seamless connection and disconnection of your vehicle and trailer.

For Car License Holders:

Our ‘Fast Track Category C+E’ course is meticulously designed to accelerate your journey to HGV Class 1 mastery. Following the acquisition of a provisional license and successful completion of relevant theory tests, you’ll embark on a practical training phase in a Category C vehicle, gaining familiarity with its dimensions and handling characteristics. This initial step prepares you for the transition to Category C+E vehicles, culminating in Module 3a (off-road) and Module 3b (on-road driving ability) tests that mark the completion of your training.

Upon successfully passing the Category C+E tests, you’ll be empowered to operate any commercial vehicle (except PCV), including those towing trailers. Embrace the thrill of commanding these majestic vehicles and embark on a fulfilling career as a Class 1 ‘Articulated’ driver.

Fast Track

Fast Track HGV Training: Your Car-to-Class 1 Journey

If you’re looking for a quick and efficient way to get your HGV license, then fast track HGV training, also known as “car to Class 1” training, is the perfect option for you. This type of commercial driver training program is designed for individuals who already hold a valid car driving license and want to quickly obtain a Class 1 (also known as Category C+E) commercial driving license.

What is Included in Fast Track HGV Training?

The program typically covers all the necessary training and testing required for individuals to obtain their Class 1 license, including:

Basic vehicle handling and manoeuvring: You will learn how to safely and effectively operate a Class 1 vehicle, including how to start, stop, turn, and reverse.

Loading and unloading procedures: You will learn how to properly load and unload cargo, as well as how to secure it safely for transport.

Understanding of road laws, regulations, and transport industry standards: You will gain a comprehensive understanding of the rules and regulations that govern the transport industry, as well as the specific safety standards that apply to Class 1 drivers.

Practical training on operating Class 1 vehicles: You will spend a significant amount of time behind the wheel of a Class 1 vehicle, under the supervision of experienced instructors. This will allow you to develop the practical skills and experience you need to operate these vehicles safely and effectively.

Preparing for and passing the required practical and theoretical exams: You will receive comprehensive preparation for both the practical and theoretical exams required to obtain your Class 1 license.

Benefits of Fast Track HGV Training

There are several benefits to choosing fast track HGV training, including:

Quicker completion: Fast track HGV training programs are designed to be completed in a shorter amount of time compared to traditional HGV training programs, making it an attractive option for individuals who are eager to start working as a Class 1 driver.

More focused training: Fast track HGV training programs are more focused and intensive, which allows individuals to learn the skills they need more quickly.

Greater earning potential: Class 1 drivers are in high demand, and they can command a higher salary than other types of commercial drivers.

Who is Fast Track HGV Training Right For?

Fast track HGV training is a good option for individuals who:

– Are already car drivers and have a good understanding of road safety rules and regulations

– Are physically fit and capable of handling the demands of long-distance driving

– Are motivated and committed to learning the skills required for Class 1 driving

– Are eager to start working as a commercial driver

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CPC DRIVER TRAINING

WHAT IS DRIVER CPC?

Driver CPC is a qualification that was introduced in 2008 for PCV Drivers and 2009 for HGV Drivers. It is a legal requirement across the EU that all PCV and HGV drivers who want to drive professionally (unless the work is exempt), must hold their CPC. The aim is to improve road safety, recognise and accredit the knowledge and skills required to be a professional driver, ensure these are continually updated and to raise the status of drivers to promote driving as a career. Once you have successfully completed your CPC you will be issued with a Driver Qualification Card (DQC) to prove that you hold the qualification. Your CPC must be renewed every 5 years by sitting 35 hours of periodic training, this will continue throughout your driving career.

INITIAL CPC QUALIFICATION

The initial qualification is for drivers who sat their car test after January 1997 and it is the first CPC you must sit if you are becoming a professional driver.

It has been divided into 4 modules to give you the option to obtain your vocational licence only or to gain Driver CPC at the same time.

Pre 1997 drivers are eligible to sit the Initial CPC if they have never sat any CPC training before (subject to entitlement check).

Module 1 – Theory Test – Multiple Choice Questions & Hazard Perception Test

Module 2 – Case Studies

Module 3 – Practical Test

Module 4 – Driver CPC Practical Test

PERIODIC CPC TRAINING / REFRESHER

As a professional driver you will need to complete 35 hours of CPC Periodic training every 5 years.

Gatewen and ATC regularly hold accredited sessions every month. All of our courses are

professionally designed, informative and interactive to help continually improve and maintain your skills and knowledge. Each course can be a 2 x 3.5 hour or 1 x 7-hour session.

TRANSPORT MANAGER CERTIFICATE OF PROFESSIONAL COMPETENCE (TMCPC) LGV/PCV

This qualification is needed if you want to become a Transport Manager or Owner Operator. Gatewen Training Services, in partnership with ATC, offers the Certificate of Professional Competence for Transport Managers with a 10-day classroom-based course over 6 weeks on Saturdays, combined with 4 days revision Monday – Thursday prior to the exams on Friday. We also offer a 10-day intensive course 2 weeks prior to the exam, and all of this is training and exam is held at either our Wrexham or Anglesey site.

There is a wide-ranging syllabus covering business management and all aspects of transport.

All candidates need to be assured that the material they are studying and the tutors that are guiding the course are clear, concise, and as up to date as possible. The course is classed as a ‘level 3’ qualification and is the equivalent of an A-level. Although there are no formal requirements to sit the course, a good grasp of English and Maths is important.

Attending an intensive classroom course is a great way to study. Our TM Tutor will ensure you not only understand the syllabus but are also prepared for the end exams.

OLAT - OPERATOR LICENCE AWARENESS TRAINING

Our One-day OLAT training course is aimed at National, International and Restricted O Licence Holders, Directors and transport personnel at all levels who play an active part in the legal compliance of the operation. LGV/PCV.

Modules

Health, Safety & Emergencies

Industry Environment

Legislation (Hours/WTD/Regs)

Legislation for Carriage of Goods

Legislation for Carriage of Passengers

Loading / Unloading

Personal Health & Wellbeing

Physical/Mental Health & Wellbeing

Professional Driver & Company Issues

TRANSPORT MANAGER REFRESHER COURSE

Our Two-day TM Refresher Course is available to existing qualified Transport Managers who require refresher training to keep up-to-date on legislation around drivers’ hours, compliance and to re-Inforce the operator licence undertakings. LGV/PCV. Gatewen Training Services, in partnership with ATC Training* facilitates the delivery of professional CPC Driver Training to individuals and organisations working and operating in the transport industry.

Whatever stage of your transport career you are at, together we offer a range of courses and consultancy services to help you achieve more. As well as practical training we can support you throughout the entire process of becoming a qualified, competent and confident driver.

*ATC Training are a Skills and Education Group approved training centre

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Common question about HGV driver training

Who can become an HGV driver?

To become an HGV driver, you must be at least 18 years old and hold a full UK car driving licence (category B). You will also need to pass a medical examination and obtain a vocational entitlement (category C1, C1+E, C, or C+E) to drive specific types of HGVs.

How long does it take to train to become an HGV driver?

The duration of HGV driver training varies depending on the course provider and the type of licence you are seeking. However, on average, it takes around 5-6 weeks to complete a full HGV driver training course. This includes theory and practical training, as well as preparation for the necessary tests.

What is involved in HGV driver training?

HGV driver training typically encompasses both classroom and practical aspects. Classroom training covers topics such as:

Road safety and driving regulations

Vehicle maintenance and technical aspects

Load security and weight distribution

ADR (hazardous materials) training

Driver CPC (certificate of professional competence) refresher courses

Practical training involves hands-on experience in driving HGVs in various environments, including urban roads, motorways, and reversing maneuvers.

How much does HGV driver training cost?

The cost of HGV driver training varies depending on the provider, the type of licence, and the length of the course.

What are the job prospects for HGV drivers?

The demand for HGV drivers is high and growing, with shortages across the UK. This is due to an aging workforce and a lack of new recruits entering the industry. As a result, HGV drivers are in a strong position to negotiate competitive salaries and job opportunities.

What are the benefits of being an HGV driver?

HGV driving offers a variety of benefits, including:

Competitive salaries and earning potential

Good job security and career prospects

Flexible working hours and variety of routes

Opportunities for travel and exploration

How can I prepare for HGV driver training?

Before embarking on HGV driver training, there are a few things you can do to prepare:

Gain experience driving large vehicles, such as vans or minibuses

Familiarize yourself with road regulations and traffic signs

Practice reversing and maneuvering in tight spaces

Stay up-to-date on current driving standards and regulations

What resources are available to support my HGV driver training?

Gatewen Training Services provides comprehensive HGV driver training courses, tailored to individual needs and preferences. Our experienced instructors will guide you through all aspects of training, ensuring you gain the knowledge, skills, and confidence to become a skilled HGV driver.

We also offer a range of support services, including:

Written and online theory resources

Access to mock tests and revision materials

Assistance with license applications and medical examinations

Job placement opportunities with our network of employers

Embark on a rewarding career as an HGV driver with Gatewen Training Services. Our expert guidance and supportive environment will help you excel in this dynamic industry.

need more information, advice or guidance?

IAG is the process of providing you, our learners, with INFORMATION (facts and knowledge relating to learning and careers), ADVICE (recommendations based on our experience) and GUIDANCE (detailed 1-1 support from qualified IAG advisor) . This process allows you to make informed career decisions. In doing so you can:

Review your existing skills

Plan your career

Identify your skills gaps

Set new goals

Increase your levels of motivation

Raise your aspirations

Build your confidence and self-belief

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