Carys

About You

What is your name and depot/location?

• Carys, I am based at Redditch Depot.

When did you complete your training with the Rotala Training Academy?

• 19th June 2025.

What were you doing before joining the Academy?

• I used to be a senior carer for a local care company.

Your Journey

What made you decide to become a PCV Driver?

• I have always loved driving and have held people-focused positions throughout my career, so I believed this would combine the two.

Why did you choose the Rotala Training Academy?

• I had seen an advert on Indeed for Diamond, and Redditch was my local depot. I attended the interview and loved the people, so I decided to accept the training offer.

What were your first impressions of the training programme?

• It was a very well-presented training programme and gave me all the tools I needed to pursue my career in driving.

The Training Experience

What was the most valuable thing you learned during your training?

• Learning the specifics of how a bus works. As I had never been in a bus before, having this explained to me made me feel more in control.

What challenges did you face while learning to drive a bus, and how did you overcome them?

• The biggest challenge was getting used to the size of the vehicle. However, with the expertise of the instructor and the hours spent driving, I began to feel much more comfortable.

How did the trainers and Academy team support you throughout your journey?

• They were patient and often gave explanations that were clear and easy to follow. There was both positive and constructive feedback that we could take away and work on.

What part of the training did you enjoy the most?

• Passing my test!

Your Career Today

What does a typical day look like for you now as a qualified driver?

• Coming in, checking my bus and making sure I have all my equipment as a DRT driver. I then pick passengers up from their required locations and drop them off where they need to be.

What do you enjoy most about your role?

• Getting to know regular passengers and catching up with them daily.

What has been your proudest achievement since passing your test?

• Finding my colleague, who is now the love of my life.

Advice for Future Trainees

What advice would you give to someone considering joining the Academy?

• Do it! It’s the best thing you’ll ever do.

What would you say to somebody who lacks confidence about learning to drive a bus?

• There’s no need to be concerned. The trainers will teach you everything you need to know to be successful. Then, at the depot, you’ll have a wonderful team to support your growth further.

Why would you recommend the Rotala Training Academy to others?

• It includes everything you need to complete your training and be fully prepared for life as a bus driver.