At a Glance
- Tasks: Drive buses, connect with passengers, and support your community daily.
- Company: Join Arriva, a leading transport provider dedicated to customer service and community support.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible shifts, free travel for you and family, and discounts at local stores.
- Why this job: Be a vital part of your community while enjoying paid training and career progression opportunities.
- Qualifications: Must be over 18 with a valid UK driving licence and at least 6 months driving experience.
- Other info: Experience a supportive team environment that values inclusion and diversity.
Start your bus driving career with Arriva at our Ashington depot – PCV and Trainee opportunities available! At Arriva, you’ll be at the heart of your community, helping commuters get to work, children to school, and neighbours to the shops. Whether you’re an experienced PCV Driver or looking to start a new career as a Trainee Bus Driver, we have a role for you.
As a Bus Driver, you’ll build relationships with regular passengers, be a friendly face, and play a vital role in connecting our customers to what matters most. Did you know Bus Drivers are among the most thanked professionals in the UK? We’re proud of our customer service and the support we provide to the community.
- Trainee Drivers:
- Monday to Friday: £12.92 per hour rising to £13.37 per hour.
- Bank Holidays: £30 in additional bonus paid per shift.
- After 6 months service: £13.24 per hour, rising to £15.01 per hour.
- After 6 months service: £15.46 per hour.
Full paid training, including obtaining your PCV licence through our Arriva Training School.
- Ongoing CPC training for all drivers and professional development opportunities.
- Career progression into management, support training, or becoming an expert driver.
- Flexible and rotating shifts planned 6-8 weeks in advance.
- Free bus travel for you and your family (or a nominee).
- Access to the Arriva Village for store discounts and offers.
- Free staff bus and shuttle services to and from work.
Shift Patterns:
- 5 out of 7 rotating shifts planned, with 1 in 3 weekends off, including 1 in 6 as a long weekend (Thursday to Sunday).
- Morning shifts starting at 04:00, and evenings ending by 01:30.
- Overtime available on request.
Requirements:
- Be over 18 years old with at least 6 months of driving experience.
- Hold a valid UK driving licence with no more than 6 penalty points.
We’re creating a community that values inclusion and diversity. Whether you’re an experienced driver or starting your journey as a trainee, you’ll enjoy paid training, enhanced pay rates, and a supportive team environment where you can thrive. Take the wheel of your future—apply today and become part of the Arriva family at our Ashington depot!
Trainee Bus Drivers employer: Arriva Northumbria Limited
Contact Detail:
Arriva Northumbria Limited Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Trainee Bus Drivers
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the local area and bus routes. Understanding the community you’ll be serving can help you connect better with passengers and demonstrate your commitment to the role during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your customer service skills. As a Bus Driver, you'll be interacting with the public daily, so think of examples from past experiences where you've provided excellent service or resolved issues effectively.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for potential scenario-based questions in your interview. Think about how you would handle various situations on the road or with passengers, as this will highlight your problem-solving abilities and readiness for the job.
✨Tip Number 4
Network with current or former bus drivers if possible. They can provide insights into the role and the company culture, which can be invaluable when discussing your fit for the position during the application process.
We think you need these skills to ace Trainee Bus Drivers
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure you fully understand the responsibilities and requirements of a Trainee Bus Driver. Familiarise yourself with the job description provided by Arriva to tailor your application accordingly.
Highlight Relevant Experience: Even if you are applying for a trainee position, emphasise any relevant driving experience or customer service skills in your CV. Mention your valid UK driving licence and any other qualifications that may set you apart.
Craft a Strong Cover Letter: Write a compelling cover letter that showcases your enthusiasm for the role and your commitment to providing excellent customer service. Explain why you want to join Arriva and how you can contribute to their community-focused mission.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting your application, carefully proofread all documents for spelling and grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism, which are crucial for a driving role.
How to prepare for a job interview at Arriva Northumbria Limited
✨Know Your Route
Familiarise yourself with the local area and common bus routes. Being able to discuss your knowledge of the community will show your commitment to the role and help you connect with the interviewers.
✨Emphasise Customer Service Skills
As a Bus Driver, you'll be interacting with passengers daily. Highlight any previous experience in customer service and share examples of how you've handled difficult situations or provided excellent service.
✨Demonstrate Safety Awareness
Safety is paramount in driving. Be prepared to discuss your understanding of road safety regulations and how you would ensure the safety of your passengers while on the road.
✨Show Enthusiasm for the Role
Express your passion for becoming a Bus Driver and your eagerness to contribute to the community. A positive attitude can make a significant difference in how interviewers perceive you.