First Bristol

English language learning and familiarity of the local dialect is a top priority in the recruitment and training of European bus drivers and skilled engineers employed by First Bristol.

Innovative ways of attracting Polish recruits acquainted with “Bristolian” include using a local language school to support ongoing language development, an intensive week of English classes and staying with an English family to promote and educate the differences in local dialect.

First Bristol is one of the operating companies of First Bus and has been consistently involved in the employment of European workers. First Bus is the UK's largest bus operator, with approximately 9,000 buses operating in 40 towns and cities across the UK, carrying 2.9 million passengers every day and employing over 25,000 people. At least 5% of First Bus’ UK workforce is non native English speakers.

Since 2004, the First Bus European Recruitment team has recruited more than 1,400 new employees to its business across driving and engineering roles. A driving school in Poland assesses driving ability and offers experience in a right hand drive vehicle and English language training supplements existing skills.

The Regional Language Network SW introduced First Bristol to the Bristol Anglo- Polish Society to help boost the company’s contacts with Poland and the Polish community and recommended a local language school to support ongoing language development.

“Housing with local families is a big bonus and supports a full time learning experience for each new recruit,” says Neil Foames, European Recruitment Manager for First Bus. “The drivers really seem to benefit from the course and the experience of living with local people for this short time. Exposure to British customs and the British way of life is a key contributor to the successful integration of these guys when they arrive. Our contact with the Regional Language Network has been really useful in that respect.”

Visit the First Group website at www.firstgroup.com

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