Telford College partners with Arriva to train bus drivers

Telford College is joining forces with transport firm Arriva to launch a new bus driver training programme.

The three-week programme, running from April 27 to May 15, includes the chance to experience a day in the life of a bus driver, and site visit to an Arriva depot.

There is also a guaranteed job interview for everyone who completes the course.

It follows the success of a similar programme the college has in partnership with National Express in the Black Country.

Jon Aver, from the employer engagement team at Telford College, said: “By working together, we’re bringing our combined expertise and resources to deliver greater value, innovation, and support for those we work with. 

“This partnership marks an important step forward and reflects our mutual focus on long‑term success, continuous improvement and gives people the opportunity to engage with a local employer and interview for available roles.”

Gary King, from the Arriva UK Bus Regional Training Centre, added: “We’re excited to announce this new partnership, built on a shared commitment to collaboration, quality, and positive outcomes.” 

The course, backed by the Department for Work and Pensions, is open to anyone aged 19 or over who is either unemployed or earning less than the National Minimum Wage.

It provides relevant level one and two qualifications which are required to start a career in bus driving, and includes a site visit to the Arriva depot on the Stafford Park industrial estate in Telford.

Beckie Bosworth, director of partnerships and employer engagement at Telford College, said: “We’ve developed these programmes in response to a need to recruit more bus drivers.

“It offers relevant and comprehensive training to gain qualifications to start a career in bus driving, with the added bonus of  a guaranteed job interview and pathway to exciting job opportunities.” 

• To find out more details, email employability@telfordcollege.ac.uk or call 01952 642554.