Meet our Apprentices!

1 month ago Thu 6th Feb 2025

National Apprentice Week 10th - 16th of February 2025 is a brilliant chance for employers to attract new talent to their industry and celebrate the achievements of current apprentices working on placements. It also gives prospective apprentices the chance to see what opportunities are available to them in the sectors they are passionate about.

In 2023, Go Ahead was named as the 5th Top Apprenticeship Employer in the UK, having hired 1100 apprentices in 2022, and we want to keep up the good work! Apprenticeship schemes are hugely beneficial for both employers and employees as they up-skill talented individuals to create a stronger and more diverse workforce and provide the apprentices with a kick-start to a blossoming career. More information about Go Ahead's apprenticeship scheme can be found here.

The theme of this year's National Apprenticeship Week is 'Skills for Life' and in light of this, we are taking the opportunity to showcase some of our wonderful apprentices across Go East Anglia.

Keiran Mottershaw

Apprentice Kerian Mottershaw in front of a bus in overalls

What type of apprenticeship are you on?

I am currently on a mechelec apprenticeship this is a mixture of mechanical and electrical mechanic.

Why did you want to do an apprenticeship at GEA?

I choose this apprenticeship as in school I never found interest in learning however once I was introduced into the world of engines and vehicles I knew it was something I wanted to pursue. My main reason for choosing an apprenticeship instead of college was because I found my learning style was hands on and through an apprenticeship I am able to view mechanics in a different way to if I was in a college.

What's your favourite thing about working for Go East Anglia?

My favourite thing about the work I do is all the opportunities and possibilities this job path creates.

What's the best means you've found of overcoming challenges?

Overcoming challenges is difficult however through my co-workers I am able to understand the task and find ways around the problem.

What are your plans and ambitions for the future?

Plans for the future I would like to become an independent self employed mechanic

Zack Cross

Zack on bus step

Zack is an Engineering Apprentice studying for Bus & Coach (NVQ Level 3) and is based at the Hedingham and Chambers depot in Clacton, Essex.

For Zack, embarking on an apprenticeship was preferable to going to university as there was more emphasis on practical learning, as well as the opportunity to earn a wage at the same time.

As well as the free bus travel (which always comes in handy!), Zack's favourite things about working for Go East Anglia are the positive atmosphere and the support network created by more experienced colleagues.

Zack welcomes the challenges that come his way so that he can push himself and develop further by asking questions and getting things done to achieve results.

In future, Zack wants to continue on his path of development and aims to be an Engineering Manager.

Previous apprentices at Go East Anglia

Yasmin Norman

Yasmin

Yasmin is the Personal Assistant to Go East Anglia's Managing Director and Finance Director and is based in Konectbus in Norfolk.

What type of apprenticeship are you on?

Business Administration Level 3 Apprenticeship

Why did you want to do an apprenticeship at GEA?

I started off as an Office Assistant for the Finance Team and worked my way up to the role of Personal Assistant. As this is the first time I have been a PA I felt like further training or an apprenticeship would work well to further my knowledge and skills specifically for my new role.

Why did you choose to go down the apprenticeship route?

After speaking to the Finance Director and discussing my options to progress within the company, he suggested completing an apprenticeship to which I happily agreed. Especially as this is something that I can take with me if I change my position.

What's your favourite thing about working for Go East Anglia?

The multiple opportunities to progress within the company. GEA certainly took a chance on me, especially having no previous experience as a PA. I am very grateful to have been give this opportunity.

What's the best means you've found of overcoming challenges?

The support network within the company has been fantastic. I have weekly meeting with the Managing Director in which I can openly express any concerns and find ways to overcome them.

What are your plans and ambitions for the future?

To continue improving my skills within my role and possibly complete more courses in the future.

If you would like to know more about how to apply for an apprenticeship at Go East Anglia, more information is available here.