At a Glance
- Tasks: Drive buses while providing top-notch customer service and support to passengers.
- Company: Join Arriva, a community-focused company that values people and inclusivity.
- Benefits: Paid training, competitive pay, free bus travel, and career progression opportunities.
- Other info: Flexible shifts with ongoing support and mentoring from expert instructors.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in people's journeys while building valuable skills.
- Qualifications: Must be 18+, hold a UK driving license, and have customer service experience.
The predicted salary is between 25400 - 35000 € per year.
Start your bus driving career with Arriva at our Gillingham depot, where customer service comes first, and people are at the heart of everything we do. This is much more than a driving role. As a Bus Driver, you’ll be a front-line ambassador for Arriva, supporting customers throughout their journeys and helping them feel safe, welcome, and valued. From assisting elderly passengers, reassuring nervous travellers, helping parents and children, to supporting customers with accessibility needs — your people skills will be just as important as your driving.
If you have previous customer service experience (for example in retail, hospitality, care, or any customer-facing role) and enjoy helping others, this could be the perfect career change.
Why customer service matters in this roleEvery day, you’ll:
- Greet customers warmly and professionally
- Answer questions and provide journey information
- Support passengers with additional needs
- Handle situations calmly and empathetically
- Create a positive experience, even when things don’t go to plan
Bus Drivers are one of the most thanked jobs in the UK — and that’s because of the human connection you build with your customers.
Pay RateDuring training (first 4–6 weeks): £12.21 per hour
After training: Up to 6 months’ service: £12.52 per hour
6+ months’ service: £16.85 per hour | Overtime £17.87 per hour
- Fully paid training to gain your PCV license — no previous bus driving experience needed
- Arriva Training School with expert instructors
- Ongoing mentoring and support once you’re out on the road
- Overtime opportunities, including bank holidays, paid at premium rates
- Ongoing CPC training
- Career development opportunities into management, training, or specialist driving roles
- Working for an inclusive, community-focused company where looking after customers is a shared responsibility
Rotating shift pattern: 5 days out of 7
Shifts published 6–8 weeks in advance
Morning shifts from 04:00
Afternoon shifts from 12:00
Evening shifts from 18:00
Fixed shifts are not available
- Aged 18 or over
- UK driving license held for at least 6 months
- No more than 6 penalty points
- Ability to pass a drug and alcohol test
- Ability to pass an English comprehension test
- Proven customer service experience is required
- A friendly, patient, and approachable manner
- Confidence communicating with a wide range of customers
- The ability to stay calm, polite, and professional in challenging situations
- Flexibility to work early mornings, evenings, and weekends
Access to the Arriva Village— discounts and offers
Employee Assistance Programme
Free bus travel for you and your household
Fantastic career progression opportunities
Long service awards
At Arriva, we value diversity, inclusion, and the unique experiences our people bring. By putting customers first, we create better journeys, stronger communities, and a workplace where everyone belongs.
Trainee Bus Driver in Medway employer: Arriva UK Bus Ltd
Arriva is an exceptional employer located at our Gillingham depot, where we prioritise customer service and foster a supportive work culture. With fully paid training to obtain your PCV licence, ongoing mentoring, and numerous career development opportunities, we empower our employees to grow within the company while making a meaningful impact in the community. Join us to be part of a diverse team that values every individual and creates positive experiences for our customers.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Trainee Bus Driver in Medway
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company! Before your interview, do a bit of research on Arriva. Understand their values and what they stand for. This will help you connect with the interviewers and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their team.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your people skills! Since this role is all about customer service, think of examples from your past experiences where you've helped others. Be ready to share these stories during your interview to demonstrate your ability to connect with customers.
✨Tip Number 3
Dress the part! Even though it’s a driving role, first impressions matter. Wear something smart-casual to your interview to show that you take the opportunity seriously and are ready to represent Arriva well.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, you’ll find all the latest opportunities and updates directly from Arriva, making it easier for us to keep in touch with you throughout the process.
We think you need these skills to ace Trainee Bus Driver in Medway
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Customer Service Skills:Make sure to highlight any previous customer service experience you have. Whether it’s from retail, hospitality, or any other customer-facing role, we want to see how you’ve made a positive impact on customers in the past.
Be Personable and Approachable:In your application, let your personality shine through! We’re looking for friendly and patient individuals, so don’t be afraid to show us your approachable side. A warm tone can make all the difference.
Tailor Your Application:Read the job description carefully and tailor your application to match. Use keywords from the description to demonstrate that you understand what we’re looking for in a Trainee Bus Driver.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us quickly and efficiently. Plus, you’ll find all the info you need about the role there!
How to prepare for a job interview at Arriva UK Bus Ltd
✨Know Your Customer Service Skills
Make sure to highlight your previous customer service experience during the interview. Think of specific examples where you’ve helped customers, especially in challenging situations. This will show that you understand the importance of being a friendly and approachable ambassador for Arriva.
✨Demonstrate Empathy and Patience
Prepare to discuss how you handle different types of passengers, particularly those with additional needs or who may be nervous. Share stories that showcase your ability to stay calm and professional while providing support, as this is crucial for the role.
✨Familiarise Yourself with the Role
Research what it means to be a Bus Driver at Arriva. Understand the daily responsibilities and challenges, and think about how you can contribute positively to the customer experience. This knowledge will help you answer questions more confidently.
✨Be Ready for Shift Patterns
Since the role involves rotating shifts, be prepared to discuss your flexibility regarding working hours. Show that you’re open to early mornings, evenings, and weekends, as this will demonstrate your commitment to the job and willingness to adapt.
