Apprenticeship
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Trainee Bus Driver

FirstGroup
£14.10 - £15.10 per hour
Taunton

Expected closing date: Friday, 25 December 2026

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TL;DR

Key Takeaways

  • Earn £14.10 per hour while training, rising to £15.10 per hour upon qualification.
  • Fully paid training provided to become a qualified bus driver.
  • Permanent, full-time role with guaranteed hours and structured rotas in Taunton.
  • Applications close on 25 December 2026.

About the Role

About First Bus

First Bus is a leading bus operator committed to delivering sustainable, comfortable, and efficient passenger journeys through innovative technology and environmentally friendly vehicles. We are shaping the future of public transport and connecting communities.

Trainee Bus Driver – Taunton

No previous bus driving experience is required. If you hold a full UK driving licence, enjoy helping people, and have a positive, reliable attitude, we will provide fully paid training to help you become a qualified professional driver. This role offers job security, excellent employee benefits, and opportunities for career progression.

What’s in it for you?

  • Pay: You’ll start on £14.10 per hour while training, increasing to £15.10 per hour once fully qualified.
  • Hours: Permanent role with guaranteed contracted hours and structured rotas planned in advance. You’ll work a variety of shifts across mornings, evenings, and weekends, with weekday time off and opportunities for overtime.

The Role

You will operate local bus services across Taunton and surrounding areas, ensuring the safety and comfort of passengers. This is a customer-facing role where safety, professionalism, and reliability are key.

  • Shifts are rota-based and include early mornings, evenings, and weekends.
  • Schedules will be provided in advance.

What We’re Looking For

  • Full UK driving licence held for at least 6 months
  • Maximum of 6 penalty points
  • Minimum age of 18
  • Right to work in the UK
  • Strong communication and customer service skills
  • Flexible approach to shift work

Full training is provided; no PCV licence is required.

Background checks will form part of the recruitment process.

Rewards

  • Health & Wellbeing: Simply Health & Smart Health offering cashback benefits, virtual GP appointments, mental health support, and nutrition/fitness advice. Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) for 24/7 mental health support.
  • Financial Wellbeing: A platform with discounts on high street brands and supermarkets.
  • Travel: Discounted train travel for you and your family after 6 months' service, plus a free bus pass.
  • Other Benefits: Free onsite parking, cycle to work scheme, up to 5 weeks holiday + bank holidays, pension scheme, and the chance to buy discounted FirstGroup shares.