Carousel Buses has opened a bus driver academy at its depot in High Wycombe to provide on-site training for the first time.
The Buckinghamshire-based operator previously held training at the depot of sister company Oxford Bus in Oxford.
Trainer Mark Bumann has begun leading courses for the first recruits.
Carousel Buses is hoping the new facility, which will save High Wycombe-based trainees a round trip of around 90 minutes, will support expansion.
The business, which operates more than 100 vehicles and employs over 200 people, is taking on full- and part-time staff.
It offers existing PCV licence-holders a £4,000 joining bonus, while those with a standard licence can expect a wage throughout the training period.
Luke Marion, Managing Director at Carousel Buses, says: “This is an exciting strategic development that underpins our growth and continued investment in High Wycombe and South Bucks.
“It is part of our wider refurbishment of our facilities and enables us to deliver an improved welcome to new colleagues, while also supporting our recruitment campaign.
“Bus drivers play a key role in helping people travel sustainably, and it’s a hugely rewarding career. I’d encourage anyone thinking of becoming a bus driver to get in touch.”
