New Somax PCV Apprentices Start In Swindon

Eight new apprentices have started Passenger Carrying Vehicle (PCV) apprenticeships through Somax at Weston College with a company in Swindon.

Barnes Coaches have taken on eight new apprentices, who will learn how to drive buses and coaches and gain their licences, along with valuable experience in the industry thanks to Somax’s driver training apprenticeships. 

The company, which is the largest and most modern operator in the area, currently have 40 vehicles and specialise in coach hire, holidays and day trips. They have previously employed apprentices in other areas of the business, but these will be their first driver apprentices and they are keen to continue employing drivers through apprenticeships in the future.

Matt Barnes, Managing Director of Barnes Coaches, said: “I have been looking for ages for apprenticeships for drivers. When I found Somax at Weston offering PCV apprenticeships I organised a meeting. As soon as I met up with Simon [Werkshagen, Somax at Weston], I knew it was the right way forward for us!

“All our new apprentices are really keen to get started, and hopefully they’ll really hit the ground running when they pass their tests.”

Simon Werkshagen, Head of Operations and Business Development at Somax, said: “We’re thrilled to have built a new partnership with Barnes Coaches, and for our first PCV apprentices to have officially started.

“Apprenticeships can offer a lot for businesses who don’t want to go down the traditional driver training route and are a great way for employees to gain new qualifications and skills while getting valuable experience with a business.”