Bus Driver: Trainee Bus Driver (including Apprenticeship qualification)

No experience driving a bus? No problem! We’ll pay you to train whilst we invest significantly in your training. You’ll gain your PCV licence as part of our Level 2 Bus Driver Apprenticeship, which will equip you with everything you need to not only succeed but flourish on the road. The apprenticeship gives you a structured training programme and an externally recognised qualification, with no impact on your role, pay or hours. All we ask for is a great attitude to learning, a genuine desire to make a positive difference to people’s daily lives, a passion for exceptional customer experience and a full UK driving licence.

Our Working Environment

We offer a welcoming and inclusive work environment across Stagecoach, where colleagues support each other, and managers are committed to creating great places to work. We also have a wide range of employee networks to ensure everyone feels valued and included, along with a 24/7 Employee Assistance Programme to support your and your family’s health and wellbeing.

Our Walkergate Depot

At our Walkergate depot, we operate a fleet of 97 buses covering the areas of Newcastle, North Tyneside and Cramlington with a team of 266 Drivers.

This isn’t just about driving a bus—it’s about making a difference every day. You’ll be a friendly face in someone’s day, offering a warm welcome, answering questions, and helping people feel safe and supported on their journey. Ready to get behind the wheel? Let’s go!

Why Choose Stagecoach?

• We’ll cover all your training costs, so you earn while you learn
• Gain a Level 2 Bus Driver Apprenticeship, with structured training and an externally recognised qualification
• Competitive hourly rates, plus opportunities for overtime
• Great career opportunities growing into roles such as Inspector, Controller, Instructor alongside leadership and cross functional openings across the UK
• A permanent, stable career in a respected market leading organisation with a great future focussed on sustainable, clean energy vehicles
• Our benefits including pension, 20 days holiday plus 8 bank holidays, free travel for you and a companion, a wide range of discounts

What Will You Be Doing?

• Completing our industry leading training, securing your PCV licence followed by ongoing CPC training and professional development which form part of gaining your Level 2 Bus Driver Apprenticeship
• Driving our fantastic fleet safely, smoothly with confidence
• Making sure every single customer has a great journey
• Delivering top-notch customer service, helping people of all ages and backgrounds
• Creating a welcoming environment where customers feel respected, cared for, and looked after, especially those who rely on us most
• Working flexible shifts, including early mornings, evenings, and weekends

What Do You Need to Apply?

• You need to be 18 years old and hold a driving licence with no more than 6 penalty points
• Right to work in the UK (You will need to have been in the UK for a minimum of 183 days as part of DVLA requirement) and have been ordinarily resident in the UK and Islands or the British overseas territories for the last 3 years OR meet alternative criteria due to funding criteria (can be discussed via application)
• A patient, safe and courteous approach
• Being the face of Stagecoach, a positive, friendly attitude and a passion for delivering great customer service
• A willingness to learn and be part of a brilliant team
• Our recruitment process is simple; a short application (around 3 – 4 minutes), followed by an interview assessing your experience & behaviours