Nexus welcomes new apprentice cohort

North East public transport operator Nexus has welcomed ten new apprentices after receiving more than 500 applications for its latest training programme.

The new starters are beginning four-year engineering maintenance technician apprenticeships, which will equip them with the skills to maintain key parts of Nexus’ infrastructure.

They will initially spend several months with TDR Training developing practical mechanical, electrical and fitting skills before joining Nexus teams for on-the-job training.

Their future work will cover equipment including ticket machines and gates, lifts and escalators, CCTV, fire alarms and station lighting.

Among the new recruits are 17-year-old Mirren Smith and Glen Hind, 36, a former police officer who has returned to the UK after living abroad.

Mirren said: “I’m really interested in how things work, so this apprenticeship seemed ideal. 

“I can’t wait to get started with the training and work with the maintenance teams.” 

Glen added: “I’ve always wanted to find a trade and I’m really keen to learn new skills and put them into practice so this is ideal. 

“It’s time for a fresh start and I’m really looking forward it to.”

The apprentices and their families attended an induction at Nexus’ Learning Centre in South Shields, where they met managers, training providers and current and former apprentices.

Managing director Cathy Massarella said: “Congratulations to all our new apprentices. 

“We’re delighted they chose us and hope this is the beginning of a fulfilling, challenging and enjoyable career with Nexus. 

“We’re an essential public service in the region, and on top of the day-to-day operations, we’re also leading on some huge projects, so it’s a great time to join us. 

“Apprentices are the future of our workforce and I’m looking forward to seeing this group progress.” 

Nexus has a strong record of retaining its apprentices, with nine out of ten previous recruits progressing into permanent full-time employment after completing their training.

The organisation says apprenticeships play an important role in succession planning for critical roles while helping bring new skills, ideas and perspectives into its workforce.

Ally Jennings, HR Manager at Nexus, added: “Apprenticeships are vital for our long-term future and are an ideal route for both us and the apprentices. 

“They provide us with fresh ideas, new thinking and solid succession planning for critical roles, and the apprentices learn bespoke skills and competencies.

“We have gained countless skilled and engaged permanent employees who first joined us as apprentices, and we’re looking forward to the 2026 cohort joining them.” 

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