Dale, 42, started his Stagecoach Level 2 bus driver apprenticeship with Realise in May 2021.

He quickly took to the role and has since finished his training, completed thousands of miles on the roads of Barnsley and received a promotion.

As leading driver Dale now has additional office responsibilities on top of driving, including planning bus journeys around diversions, liaising with the public, dealing with breakdowns and reinstating routes.

Dale decided to embark on a career in bus driving after more than 20 years as a car mechanic.

“Whenever we have new apprentices starting on their bus driver journey I tell them that it’s possible to achieve a management role with hard work.

“It’s really pleasing that we have had a number of people do just that and Dale has achieved it particularly quickly.

“He’s done very well and has taken on board everything that we’ve told him.”

“People think apprenticeships are just for young people and they also think you always have to take a hit on income, but that’s not the case,” said Dale. “Stagecoach apprentices are paid the same as a qualified driver once you’ve gained your PCV licence, which is usually after around six weeks of the 12 month apprenticeship.”

A role with Stagecoach can offer job security, regular income, a positive working environment, new skills and progression opportunities.

The only requirements are a driving licence with no more than six penalty points on it and a passion for delivering a great customer experience.