Coach builder - Apprenticeship

Salary

Current rate of pay for trade up or £12.71p/h

Body & Coachbuilding Apprenticeship - Stagecoach

Ready for a new challenge?

Life is full of journeys - big and small, planned and unexpected. Our new brand campaign, ‘we’ve got you,’ is our way of saying that no matter what your day holds, you can count on us to be there. Three little words. One big promise. At Stagecoach, we know how important it is to stay connected to all the places and people that matter - to see friends, visit loved ones, travel to school, commute to jobs, go shopping, enjoy days out and more

Just as we're there for our passengers every day, we're here to support your journey too. If you're passionate about engineering and want to build a career in the transport industry, this apprenticeship could be the start of something special. We're looking for motivated apprentices who want to develop their skills and become the next generation of qualified mechanics. With the industry moving towards electric and low-emission vehicles, we're investing heavily in new technology and greener fleets, which means you'll have the opportunity to work on the future of public transport from day one.

About the Apprenticeship

Our four year Body & Coachbuilding Apprenticeship Programme combines classroom learning with hands-on experience. During the first three years, apprentices divide their time between training with GTG Training and practical experience in our depots, working alongside skilled body and coachbuilding technicians, you’ll learn using modern equipment and repair methods while gaining experience across structural repairs, body panel work, interior construction, and vehicle restoration.

Apprenticeship Training Overview

Year 1 - Get to grips with the fundamentals of engineering, including health & safety, tools, and vehicle construction. You’ll learn how to remove and refit body panels, repair minor damage, and carry out basic interior work. You’ll also be introduced to welding techniques and key preparation and painting processes.

Year 2 - Build on your knowledge with more complex repairs, including structural work, major damage fixes, and permanent panel fitting. You’ll develop advanced welding and bonding techniques, improve finishing skills, and prepare for your End Point Assessment with mock tests and F-Gas training.

Year 3 – Develop specialist panel‑technician expertise by mastering the removal and replacement of permanently fixed body panels, including sills, skirt rails, and inner structures. You’ll refine safe working practices, enhance your use and maintenance of professional tools, and complete advanced workshop tasks that mirror real‑world repair scenarios. You’ll also finalise your preparation for your End Point Assessment and complete the assessment to achieve your qualification.

Year 4 – A bespoke programme developed by Stagecoach. You will work closely with an experienced mentor to refine your skills and prepare for a career in engineering.

What We’re Looking For

Applicants should have:

• A genuine interest in engineering
• Three GCSEs at Grade C / 4 or above (or equivalent)
• Qualifications in English, Maths and a Science

Equivalent qualifications such as Standard Grades (1–3) or National 4/5 will also be considered.

Why Join Stagecoach?

• Full training provided
• Competitive hourly rates with overtime opportunities
• Generous pension scheme and 20 days holiday
• Free bus travel for you and a companion
• Retail and leisure discounts Clear career progression - many apprentices progress to Master Technician or management roles
• A supportive and inclusive working environment
• Work with the latest electric bus technology as we invest in the future of cleaner transport

Ready to start your engineering career with Stagecoach?

Apply today – we look forward to welcoming you to the team.

Apply to: Arran Facer, Engineering Manager, Northampton

Stagecoach is proudly an inclusive employer, striving for a culture where everyone can be themselves and where all the differences people bring are truly appreciated. We welcome applications from all, irrespective of gender, ethnicity, race, religion, beliefs, disability, neurodiversity, sexual orientation, or age.

Location:

Northampton Depot North Gate Bus Station, Bradshaw St Northampton NN1 2HL