Go North West started to deliver bus routes across Bolton and Wigan last month after being awarded the first major franchise contracts by Transport for Greater Manchester under its new Bee Network. 

A team of nearly 800 bus drivers will be operating services in Bolton and Wigan and Go North West has launched a major apprenticeship programme to help train new recruits to the industry. 

Go North West selected Realise as its training partner of choice to lead the 13-month programmes, which is likely to see around 25 new apprentices start each month. 

It further strengthens Realise’s bus driver training credentials with the provider also delivering apprenticeships for Stagecoach and creating newly-trained drivers through its own exclusive Route to Success boot-camp. 

“We are delighted to be partnering with Realise who have an experienced and talented team of trainers to deliver what is our biggest ever apprenticeship programme. 

“Realise has an extremely strong reputation for delivery of all training programmes and apprenticeships and it is known for its specialism in bus driving. 

“We have worked extremely closely with the team at Realise to create a curriculum that not only focuses on equipping our learners with all the skills they require to be a successful modern day bus driver but also ensure they are able to embrace the new franchise system.”