What type of Articulated Trailer will I get on my training?

Have you noticed that some unaccredited HGV schools offer LGV CE / HGV Class 1 articulated training using small, twin-axle urban trailers? 

This approach is not very helpful for learner HGV drivers. 

Urban trailers are mainly used in town and cities to make deliveries at local or mini-supermarkets or small fuel stations. Very limited uses. Hauliers and logistics companies much prefer to hire drivers with experience on full-size tri-axle trailers.

For instance, we heard that a group of 15 newly qualified drivers who trained on urban trailers all failed to secure jobs, at a large employer, because during their pre-employment test drive on one of the employers full-size articulated trucks, they couldn't show enough skills in driving, reversing and manoeuvering to get through their initial interview driving  assessment. And having failed their interviews they were deemed 'unsuitable' for employment.  Indeed, from that point on the employer has had a very negative view of all the other drivers who pass through the HGV schools who use urban trailers for their CE training.

In the past, getting an HGV license required 'staging.' Drivers had to start with rigid vehicles and pass their HGV Class 2 (LGV C) before moving on to LGV CE (Class 1). This process helped drivers master complex skills over time. Learning to drive articulated vehicles takes practice, and urban trailers do not provide the necessary experience.

Urban trailers are not representative of the trucks used in the haulage industry. Most CE trucks on major roads are full-size tri-axle articulated trucks, that don’t pull urban trailers. While urban trailers may look similar, they handle very differently. They can create bad driver habits, like poor hazard recognition, incorrect positioning at junctions and insufficient understanding and experience of the ‘swing’ and overhang of full-size trailers.  All especially dangerous when driving larger, heavier vehicles.

The logistics industry is evolving, with Longer Semi Trailers (LSTs) becoming popular. These trailers are stretched to allow drivers to carry larger loads and more weight. Experts agree that comprehensive training is essential for new drivers, and accredited HGV training schools, like Wallace School of Transport, are well-equipped to support the logistics sector. 

https://www.wallaceschool.co.uk/driver-training/hgv-class-1-lgv-c-e-training

In conclusion, relying on urban trailers as a quick fix for the driver shortage is not a long-term solution. 

Be cautious about booking HGV training courses that offer limited amount driving practice, on the wrong size of vehicle, as this won't help you secure the driving job you want.