A new train driver apprenticeship programme – the first of its kind in the UK – has helped Transport for Wales (TfW) win a prestigious award.

TfW currently employs 189 apprentices and has recruited more than 300 since being created over five years ago.

The not-for-profit organisation was recently named Larger Employer of the Year at the Apprenticeship Awards Cymru 2024.

Through embracing work-based learning across 12 areas of the business, TfW has recruited hundreds of apprentices to help improve performance of the business, support with long-term sustainability and provide employment opportunities for the communities it serves.

By partnering with Coleg y Cymoedd, TfW also introduced the UK’s first level three driver diploma as part of the train driver apprenticeship programme, encouraging new recruits from diverse backgrounds to enter the rail industry.

Marie Daly, Chief Customer and Culture Officer said:

“We’re extremely proud of our teams who have delivered our apprenticeship programme and this award provides them with the recognition they deserve – and of course highlights the work of our wonderful apprentices.

“TfW is a not-for-profit and we’re fully aligned with the Well-being of Future Generations Act and this award shows our commitment to providing opportunities for people in Wales from diverse backgrounds.

“We’re on a journey to transform public transport in Wales and through doing this we want to offer employment opportunities to people in the areas that we serve.

“We’re continuing to evolve in this space and are targeting 150 apprentices per year over the next three or four years.”