Press releases

ARRIVA YORKSHIRE LAUNCHES A REVOLUTIONARY FOUNDATION MODERN APPRENTICESHIP SCHEME FOR BUS DRIVERS.
PHOTOCALL - Tuesday, 8 April 2003 @ 9.30am, Arriva Yorkshire, 24 Barnsley Road, Wakefield

Concentrating on practical training alongside NVQs in Customer Service at Level 2, the Modern Apprenticeship is the first qualification of its kind to actively encourage young people to see bus driving as a career rather than 'just a job'.

As Rachel I'Anson, human resources manager, Arriva Yorkshire explains:

Young people are naturally anxious about finding a career they can progress in as there are very few 'jobs for life' these days. In addition, most people recognise the need to keep learning when they are working. We believe this framework of continuing professional development within the apprenticeship framework can fulfil both these needs. There are already four employees on the scheme, which is encouraging at this very early stage

The Foundation Modern Apprenticeship is open to young people aged between 18 and 24, who hold a full car driving licence and are interested in a career in the transport industry.

The scheme is available at all five Arriva Yorkshire locations - Wakefield, Castleford, Dewsbury, Heckmondwike, and Selby. For more information or to receive an application pack, please contact Rachel I'Anson on 01924 231 300.

NVQs in Customer Services at Levels 2 and 3 are available to all employees working within Arriva's UK Bus division.

Currently more than 1,200 employees have received their Customer Service NVQ at Level 2 or Level 3.

An apprentice already on the FMA scheme, Craig Senior said:

I'm really enjoying the scheme. It has been an excellent learning experience which will provide me with a good foundation to develop my career at Arriva Yorkshire.

All my managers and colleagues have been very encouraging and supportive whilst I have been on the scheme.

Karen Dawson, deputy district manager from Jobcentreplus said:

I am very pleased by this development to the partnership between Jobcentreplus and Arriva in the Wakefield District.

Our working together gives local people the opportunity to train for a career in bus driving and its associated trades, and get real qualifications at the same time.

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