First Bus Welcomes New Engineering Apprentices at Reaseheath College

First Bus has just welcomed its latest crew of engineering apprentices to the training academy at Reaseheath College in Cheshire – the UK’s first dedicated bus and coach engineering facility.

First Bus UK

These fresh-faced apprentices kicked off with a bit of team-building fun, followed by a pep talk from First Bus’ very own Director of Engineering Excellence, Chris Remnant. After that? A tour of the academy, of course. Out of the 36 newbies, all the English apprentices will be training at Reaseheath in Nantwich, while the four Scottish recruits get to stay closer to home at GTG College in Glasgow.

First Bus and Reaseheath College joined forces back in October 2021 to launch the bespoke engineering apprentice academy. It’s helped hundreds of eager learners, whether fresh out of school or switching careers, to get their foot in the door of the transport industry. The academy's depot-style setup gives apprentices hands-on experience with replica equipment, so when they step into a real depot, they’re ready to roll – no training wheels needed.

First Bus UK

Many apprentices have already gone on to become full-time engineers, keeping First Bus' wheels turning. The apprenticeship also focuses on hybrid vehicles, giving students the skills to drive the future of transport while helping First Bus stay ahead of the game. Plus, they earn while they learn, with a sweet accommodation package during block placements.

Chris Remnant had this to say:

“If you’re after a career as an apprentice engineer in the bus world, First Bus is where it’s at. Our apprentices are set up to thrive from day one. Whether you fancy moving into management or becoming a specialist, there are endless opportunities here. Our academy is second to none, and our partnership with Reaseheath College is as good as it gets.”

Marcus Clinton, Principal and CEO of Reaseheath College, added,

“First Bus gets it right. They’re all about giving apprentices the best experience, using top-of-the-line equipment. Together, we’re developing people who are ready to thrive in the industry.”

First Bus UK

And here’s the icing on the cake: First Bus has recently stepped up as a real Living Wage employer. They’ve pledged to raise apprentice wages to meet the real Living Wage by October 2025 – a rate that’s higher than the UK Government’s National Living Wage. This move isn’t just about keeping the buses running smoothly; it’s about investing in the people who keep them on the road, ensuring they’re valued and well-supported. It’s a win-win for everyone involved!