Women and under-represented groups across the Isle of Wight are being invited to discover what it’s like to drive a bus as part of a special recruitment event hosted by Southern Vectis later this month.
The island’s bus operator is holding a dedicated Women’s Recruitment Day on Saturday 31st October, giving attendees the opportunity to meet the company’s training team and experience driving a bus in a safe, off-road environment.
Taking place from 10:00 to 14:00 at Rookley Test Centre, Pritchetts Way, Rookley, the event is designed to encourage more women to consider a career in the bus industry and explore the opportunities available at Southern Vectis.
Successful applicants do not need to hold a bus driving licence, as full training is provided. Southern Vectis is looking for friendly, customer-focused individuals who enjoy working with people and hold a full UK car driving licence with driving experience.
Simon Moye, Operations Manager at Southern Vectis, said:
“We’re proud to offer a career that is open to people from all backgrounds, but we know women remain underrepresented within the bus industry. Our Women’s Recruitment Day is a chance for women to experience driving a bus, meet our friendly training team and discover the support available to help them succeed. They don’t need a bus licence or previous experience – just a full UK car driving licence, a positive attitude and a passion for great customer service. We’d love to welcome more women into our team”
Southern Vectis currently offers a basic pay rate of £15.58 per hour, alongside paid training, free travel across the Go South Coast network for employees and eligible family members, employee discounts, career progression opportunities and a range of other benefits.
The dedicated training team will be on hand throughout the day to answer questions about the role and explain the support available to new recruits. Attendees will also have the chance to take the wheel and experience bus driving first-hand.
Places are limited and advance registration is required. Anyone interested in attending can register via the Southern Vectis website https://www.islandbuses.info/womens-recruitment-day
While this event has been designed to encourage more women to consider a career in the bus industry, Southern Vectis welcomes applications from everyone.
