At a Glance
- Tasks: Drive buses and connect your community while providing excellent customer service.
- Company: Join Arriva, a diverse and inclusive company dedicated to community service.
- Benefits: Earn £12.71 - £17.87 per hour, with full paid training and free bus travel for your family.
- Other info: Enjoy flexible shifts, career progression, and access to exclusive discounts.
- Why this job: Be the highlight of someone's day and make a real difference in your community.
- Qualifications: Must be over 18 with a valid UK driving licence and good driving record.
The predicted salary is between 26400 - 37000 £ per year.
Start your bus driving career with Arriva at our Maidstone depot, where you will be at the heart of your community! Whether it is getting commuters to work, helping customers with popping to the shops or getting children to school - we provide an important service in connecting our customers to what matters to them. As a Bus Driver, you will get to know the familiar faces on your routes, build relationships and even be the highlight of someone’s day. Did you know that Bus Drivers are one of the most thanked jobs in the UK? We are proud of our customer service and how we support our community - and we would love to have like-minded individuals as part of our team.
Pay Rate: £12.71 - £17.87 per hour
- During Training (the first 4-6 weeks): £12.71 per hour
- After Training: Up to 9 months service: £12.71 per hour
- 9+ months service: £16.85 per hour
- Overtime: £17.87 per hour
What’s in it for you?
- Full paid training where you'll receive your PCV licence - you'll go through our Arriva Training School and learn everything you need to know about being a Bus Driver. The training generally lasts approx. 4 weeks and will take place at our Northfleet depot, before you then work with a mentor for a further few weeks.
- Overtime opportunities - extra shifts, bank holidays, all paid at a premium rate.
- Ongoing CPC training.
- Development and great career opportunities - whether that's into management, support training, or as an expert driver.
- Working for an inclusive and diverse company that puts our customers at the heart of what we do.
Hours of work and role:
A rotating shift pattern of 5 days in 7, published up to 6-8 weeks in advance so you can plan around shifts. Mornings starting from 04:00, Afternoons start from 12:00 and Evenings from 18:00 on a rotational basis. We cannot offer fixed early, afternoon or evenings separately.
Requirements:
- Must be over 18 years of age.
- Have UK driving licence and been driving for a minimum of 6 months.
- No more than 6 points on your licence.
- Will need to undergo a drug and alcohol test before your assessment.
- Will need to pass an English comprehension test.
- Flexibility as your shifts will start as early as 4AM in the morning but will always work no later than 1AM depending on the time that you start.
Access to the 'Arriva Village', where you can take advantage of store discounts and offers. Employee assistance program. Free bus travel for you and your family (within the same household). Fantastic career progression opportunities. Long service awards. 20 Days of holidays plus Bank Holidays.
At Arriva we acknowledge the importance of our people's diverse experiences, talents, and cultures. Embracing diversity and creating inclusion is a key component of our talent strategy. The creation of a diverse, inclusive workforce is central to our ability to unlock potential and enhance our success.
Trainee Bus Driver in Maidstone employer: Arriva UK Bus Ltd
Arriva is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and inclusive work environment at our Maidstone depot, where you can make a real difference in your community as a Trainee Bus Driver. With full paid training to obtain your PCV licence, ongoing development opportunities, and benefits like free bus travel for you and your family, we prioritise your growth and well-being while ensuring you feel valued and appreciated in your role.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Trainee Bus Driver in Maidstone
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company! Before your interview, do a bit of research on Arriva and their values. This will help you connect with the team and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their community.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice makes perfect! Try doing mock interviews with friends or family. Focus on common questions for bus drivers and think about how you can highlight your customer service skills and flexibility.
✨Tip Number 3
Dress the part! When you show up for your interview, make sure you look professional and approachable. First impressions matter, especially in a role where you'll be interacting with the public.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining the Arriva family right from the start!
We think you need these skills to ace Trainee Bus Driver in Maidstone
Some tips for your application 🫡
Be Yourself:When you're writing your application, let your personality shine through! We want to see the real you, so don’t be afraid to share your passion for driving and helping others in your community.
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with the role of a Bus Driver. Mention any customer service experience or teamwork skills that show you’re ready to connect with our passengers.
Check Your Details:Before hitting send, double-check your application for any typos or errors. A clean, well-presented application shows us that you pay attention to detail, which is super important when driving our buses!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the easiest way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, you’ll find all the info you need about the position there!
How to prepare for a job interview at Arriva UK Bus Ltd
✨Know Your Routes
Familiarise yourself with the local area and key routes you might be driving. Being able to discuss your knowledge of the community during the interview shows your commitment to the role and how you can connect with customers.
✨Showcase Your Customer Service Skills
As a Bus Driver, you'll be at the heart of customer interactions. Prepare examples of how you've provided excellent service in previous roles or situations. This will demonstrate that you understand the importance of customer satisfaction.
✨Be Ready for Flexibility Questions
Since the job involves a rotating shift pattern, be prepared to discuss your availability and flexibility. Highlight any past experiences where you've successfully adapted to changing schedules or worked unconventional hours.
✨Prepare for the English Comprehension Test
Brush up on your English skills, especially if you haven't taken a test in a while. Practising comprehension exercises can help you feel more confident and ready to tackle this part of the assessment.
