Go North East opens applications for engineering apprenticeships

This National Apprenticeship Week, Go North East is calling for the next generation of engineers to apply for its industry leading apprenticeship programme. Successful applicants will have the chance to develop practical engineering skills while earning both qualifications and wages.

Apprentices will begin their new career by attending one of Go-Ahead’s world-class Engineering Training Centres in Manchester to learn about mechanical and electrical systems in classrooms and in real-life settings. They will then join Go North East to learn on the job. Dedicated mentors will help guide and support recruits throughout the programme.

Lee Mutch, Engineering Director at Go North East, said: “Our apprenticeships offer a fantastic opportunity to kick start a lifelong career in engineering. Go North East apprentices become part of the team at their local depot while also attending our dedicated Go-Ahead training centre in Wigan from the very start of their career.

“In both locations, they learn from highly experienced engineers, some of whom began their own careers as apprentices and have been with us for more than 50 years.”

Go-Ahead is committed to removing barriers to entry into the industry by providing substantial financial support to successful applicants, including funded driving lessons and tests, to ensure that a career in engineering is accessible to people from all backgrounds.

Charlie Philips joined Go North East’s apprenticeship scheme last year. He says: “The apprenticeship has been brilliant from the very start. The Training Academy facilities in Manchester are first-class, and I already feel like part of the team at Washington Depot.”

The programme is delivered in partnership with S&B Automative Academy, a leading provider of apprenticeships to the automotive sector, and includes placements with some of Go-Ahead’s other partners.

Engineers at Go North East maintain more than 500 buses across the region, including 29 new electric buses. The operator has sites at Consett, Gateshead, Hexham, Percy Main, Saltmeadows Road, Sunderland and Washington.

Applications for the programme will be open until 22 March 2026 and the apprenticeships will start in July 2026. Apply and find out more on the Go North East website.