In January, Metro and bus operator Nexus announced vacancies for new apprenticeships across the business, in both operational roles and behind the scenes. Hundreds have already applied, reports Sunderland Echo, ahead of the 12 March deadline.
Seven new recruits are being sought to work in Metro Infrastructure, including in signalling, track engineering, overhead line and electrical and mechanical operational roles. A further two business administration apprenticeship opportunities are also among the roles available, filling positions in the Bus Services and Contract and Commercial Departments. And, for the first time, Nexus are looking for a Level 6 apprentice to join the Renewals projects team. The successful candidate will undertake a project management degree, gaining valuable work experience without having to rely on student finance.
Ally Jennings, HR manager, said: “We’re delighted with the response to the apprenticeship vacancies so far. We’ve had over 300 applications, and over 12,000 webpage views in four weeks, which is fantastic.
“The closing date isn’t until March 12 so there is plenty of time for anyone interested in applying. We want our workforce at all levels to be as diverse as the community we live in and we welcome apprenticeship applications from all sections of our community.”
Nexus are looking for people interested in building a long-term career with the organisation, as they invest half a billion pounds in new fleet, track and service improvements over the next five years.
Over 90% of Nexus apprentices move into a higher apprenticeship or full employment on completion.
Morgan Saville, 24, joined Nexus in 2015, on a three-year apprenticeship in Electrical Maintenance after completing her A Levels.
She said: “I loved my apprenticeship and would recommend them to anyone. You can only learn so much in a classroom, and training on the job gives you invaluable work experience and teaches you so many new skills. As well as gaining qualifications, being in a real work environment also taught me to be more independent and more responsible.
“I got a permanent role when I finished my apprenticeship and I’m now a technician for signalling, telecommunications, electrical and mechanical engineering.”
