Examiners frequently report that one of the reasons why candidates struggle with Module 1 and Module 7 in particular (but also reflects on at least Module 2 & 3) is that they lack knowledge of the operational railway.
I also have recognised this when leading Study Groups over the years; probably because of the fragmentation of the industry, loss of free travel facilities and the more onerous site safety rules compared to 30 years ago.
A new book by John Glover has been published ISBN 978-0-7110-3631-4 by Ian Allan. It's £25 (seems expensive perhaps but I think all books are nowadays and it's less than half the cost of sitting a module so if it reduces chances of failure then would be a good investment) but does give a good overview for Network Rail- there is only a short Appendix re London Underground and UK metros- so would be a useful resource for exam preparation.
Well illustrated with colour picture and diagrams.
Chapter headings are:
However if your interest is in Metros then the University of Birmingham: "Managing Railway operations & Maintenance- best practices from KCRC" ISBN 9-780952-999720 would be a better book (can't recall the price other than it was pricey so would think over £50 if you can still purchase now)
I also have recognised this when leading Study Groups over the years; probably because of the fragmentation of the industry, loss of free travel facilities and the more onerous site safety rules compared to 30 years ago.
A new book by John Glover has been published ISBN 978-0-7110-3631-4 by Ian Allan. It's £25 (seems expensive perhaps but I think all books are nowadays and it's less than half the cost of sitting a module so if it reduces chances of failure then would be a good investment) but does give a good overview for Network Rail- there is only a short Appendix re London Underground and UK metros- so would be a useful resource for exam preparation.
Well illustrated with colour picture and diagrams.
Chapter headings are:
- Railway Organisation
- Principles of Operation
- Track and Civils
- Signalling
- Electrification
- Passenger Railway
- Passenger Stations
- Timetable Planning and Service Provision
- Freight Business
- Running the Railway
- Measurement of Achievement
- Safety on the Railway
- Railway of the Future
However if your interest is in Metros then the University of Birmingham: "Managing Railway operations & Maintenance- best practices from KCRC" ISBN 9-780952-999720 would be a better book (can't recall the price other than it was pricey so would think over £50 if you can still purchase now)
PJW
