One of London’s biggest bus operators has launched a new pilot training scheme to attract more than 20 new apprentice bus drivers to the capital.

Metroline has partnered with Realise, one of the UK’s leading bus driving training providers, to help attract and train the latest recruits through apprenticeships.

The new drivers will be based out of three depots across London – Perivale, Cricklewood and Willesden Junction – with the first apprentices beginning their 13-month training programme in September and being out on the road as a fully-fledged driver just two months after starting the apprenticeship.

Metroline currently employs more than 4,450 people, over three quarters of which are bus drivers. It has 12 garages in London and operates more than 100 routes in the city.

Anyone holding a standard UK driving licence for over 12 months is eligible to apply for the apprenticeship by visiting https://www.metroline.co.uk/busdriverapprenticeships/.

Iain Maple, Recruitment Manager from Metroline, said: “We are delighted to be introducing an apprenticeship programme for bus drivers and creating opportunities for people to launch a new career.

“Our comprehensive bus service in London helps keep people in the capital moving so creating a regular flow of new talent, and providing them with apprenticeship and training opportunities, will ensure we can maintain the excellent customer service we are renowned for.

“Realise has a reputation for outstanding training delivery across a number of sectors, including bus driving, and it has a talented and experienced team.

“We are excited about the pilot scheme and the curriculum we are producing in conjunction with Realise and look forward to creating many talented new bus drivers of the future.”

The Level 2 apprenticeship will see learners obtain their Passenger Carrying Vehicle Licence, as well as learning the other skills associated with being a professional bus driver, including safety, customer service and route familiarisation.

Realise also delivers similar apprenticeships for other major UK bus operators including First Bus, Go North West and Stagecoach, while its innovative Route to Success programme has been adopted by a number of combined authorities to help create new bus drivers for their local areas.

Kairon Flowers, Operations Director, at Realise, said: “Metroline plays a very significant part in keeping London moving so we are proud and excited to be supporting its venture into apprenticeships for bus drivers.

“We have extensive experience of delivering bus driving training across the country, both through apprenticeships and adult learning. All our trainers have past experience in the industry and know the value of bus services to local communities.

“A modern day bus driver can forge an excellent career in the industry. The apprenticeship can not only provide a route to a new career, but can also leave an individual well placed to earn a promotion in the future.”