Tuffnells launches driver apprentice scheme

Warehouse staff at specialist parcels carrier, Tuffnells, are being offered the chance to take part in a 12-month driver programme to become fully qualified class C drivers.

The driver apprentice scheme, called Warehouse to Wheels, is a continuation of Tuffnells’ ongoing driver safety strategy and has influenced the success of its Think Safety First initiative which launched earlier this year.

Through the course, staff will gain experience driving different vehicles, getting hands-on experience and also developing their customer service skills.

After completing the 12-month training programme, employees will receive multiple qualifications, including the Driver Certificate of Professional Competence and a class C driving licence. They will also be certified as tachograph trained.

All participating staff will also be trained in the health and safety practices that have helped many of its depots consistently achieve gold standards at national health and safety awards run annually by the Royal Society of the Prevention of Accidents |(ROSPA).

Peter Birks, chief executive officer for Tuffnells, said:  “Our employees have the passion and drive to succeed within the logistics industry. So we are helping them on their journey by offering in-house apprenticeship schemes to allow our colleagues to develop, and in some cases diversify their skill set to reach their highest potential.”

Sharing his experience of the Warehouse to Wheels initiative, Matt Owens, 3.5t driver at Tuffnells’ Sheffield depot, said: “I signed up for the Warehouse to Wheels apprenticeship to progress my career and achieve self-satisfaction. Having the freedom of working towards my qualification both while at work and outside of working hours has been hugely beneficial in balancing work and the apprenticeship. It has offered me the experience of both working in an office and on the road whilst driving.

“I am now a qualified LGV 3.5t driver at the Tuffnells’ Sheffield depot and I aim to begin my career as a class 2 driver at the end of my apprenticeship. I’m confident this will pave the way for further career progression and I look forward to seeing what the future holds.”