Oxford Bus Company is opening the doors to its depot to offer job hunters the opportunity to train to become a bus driver.
The company has created a fast-track scheme for suitable people to secure a driving job during the open day.
The drop-in style event on Sunday will help people learn more about life as a bus or coach driver.
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Luke Marion, Oxford Bus Company interim managing director, said: "Bus and coach drivers perform a vital role in our community.
"Public transport is key to connecting communities, reducing congestions and improving air quality.
"It is a hugely rewarding job and many of our drivers have been with us for many years. We would encourage to consider becoming a bus or coach driver.
"Recruitment is challenging, as it is in many sectors and so we are taking proactive approach to the issue by holding an open event and making the process as simple as possible.
"We are seeking people with great customers service skills and will provide full bus driver training.”
Some drivers stay with the company for a long time – earlier this year Helena Soanes celebrated 25 years as an employee.
Candidates can take a tour of the depot, speak to staff, undergo a driving assessment and medical, plus receive help completing an application form.
Bus and coach drivers are an integral part of the UK and often at the heart of their local communities.
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Being a driver means playing an essential role keeping people connected with friends and family, making sure they can access essential services, and travel to work, education or other training opportunities.
Currently there is a national shortage of bus and coach drivers and Oxford Bus Company has run a series of recruitment campaigns locally to boost its workforce.
Candidates need to have held a 'manual' driving licence for 18 months and have experience of providing excellent customer service skills.
A variety of full and part time shift patterns to accommodate differing lifestyles are available, the pay rate once qualified is as much as £17.21 per hour and overtime is available.
Full training is provided for all successful candidates. Benefits include free bus travel for immediate family.
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The open day is taking place between 10am and 2pm on Sunday at Cowley House Depot in Watlington Road.
Candidates can use the city11X service from Oxford city centre for free if travelling to the bus driver recruitment day. Limited parking is also available at the depot.
For more information visit: oxfordbus.co.uk/obc-recruitment-day
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This story was written by Andy Ffrench, he joined the team more than 20 years ago and now covers community news across Oxfordshire.
Get in touch with him by emailing: Andy.ffrench@newsquest.co.uk
Follow him on Twitter @OxMailAndyF