Level 3 Bus and Coach Engineering Technician
In partnership with
Duration: 36 months (plus 3 months EPA)
Trusted by leading employers
Bus and Coach Engineering Apprenticeship
Developing the next generation of bus and coach engineering technicians
The Bus and Coach Engineering Apprenticeship equips learners with the practical skills and technical knowledge needed to inspect, diagnose, repair and maintain buses and coaches. Designed to support both new entrants and workforce development, the programme helps build the capabilities required to keep passenger transport vehicles safe, reliable and operational.
Throughout the apprenticeship, learners gain hands-on experience working with a range of vehicle systems while developing technical, diagnostic and fault finding skills. Alongside their engineering training, they build professional skills such as teamwork, communication, organisation and self-motivation, preparing them to contribute effectively within a modern engineering environment.
Topics, units and assessments
Supporting career development and business success
As part of this apprenticeship, learners will develop knowledge and skills in:
1
Health and Safety
Follow health, safety and good housekeeping procedures to maintain a safe and efficient automotive working environment.
2
Tools and Equipment
Use materials, fabrication methods, hand tools and measuring devices safely and accurately when carrying out maintenance and repair tasks.
3
Working Relationships
Develop effective working relationships with colleagues and other professionals to support a productive workshop environment.
4
Vehicle Systems
Understand the construction, operation and maintenance requirements of heavy vehicle systems and components.
5
Mechanical and Electrical Systems
Build knowledge of engine, chassis and electrical systems, developing the skills needed to inspect, maintain and repair vehicles.
6
Technical Competence
Develop core competencies through practical training, diagnostics and mock assessments that prepare learners for real workplace situations.
Customised training available
Flexible delivery to suit your business or schedule
Career progression
Career progression that drives personal growth and business success
Engineering Supervisor
Engineering supervisors oversee maintenance team members responsible for keeping buses and coaches safe, reliable and compliant with industry regulations. They coordinate resources and plan maintenance schedules to ensure vehicles remain operational and services run efficiently.
In this leadership role, engineering supervisors support technician development, drive continuous improvements and help maintain high standards of safety, performance and customer service across fleet operations.
Workshop Manager
Workshop managers oversee teams of technicians, coordinating maintenance schedules, managing workloads and ensuring repair work is completed safely and efficiently. They are responsible for maintaining workshop equipment, monitoring performance and supporting technicians in delivering high-quality maintenance and repair services.
In bus and coach operations, workshop managers play a vital role in keeping fleets roadworthy, minimising vehicle downtime and ensuring services run reliably. Their leadership helps maintain high standards of safety, compliance and operational efficiency across the workshop.
IRTEC Inspector
An IRTEC inspector is a qualified technician responsible for carrying out detailed inspections and safety checks on buses, coaches and other commercial vehicles. They assess vehicle condition, identify faults and help ensure vehicles remain safe, roadworthy and compliant with industry standards.
Using their technical expertise and attention to detail, IRTEC inspectors conduct thorough examinations, diagnose issues and verify that maintenance requirements have been met. Their role is essential in supporting vehicle safety, regulatory compliance and the reliable operation of transport fleets.
MOT Inspector
A MOT inspector is responsible for carrying out MOT tests on buses, coaches and other vehicles to ensure they meet the required road safety and environmental standards. They conduct detailed inspections of key vehicle systems, identifying defects and areas that require repair before a vehicle can be certified as roadworthy.
Using their technical knowledge and attention to detail, MOT inspectors help maintain vehicle safety, support regulatory compliance and ensure vehicles remain fit for use on the road. Their role is essential in promoting safe, reliable and efficient transport operations.
"There's always an open door policy with my line managers. They inspire and motivate us to be successful apprentices. If anyone wanted to do an apprenticeship with Total People, I would say go for it, it's a life long career and there's different career paths you can take."
David, Bus and Coach Apprentice.
How training works
Designed to minimise disruption while supporting real-world learning
Off the job training is a critical and important element; it must deliver new skills and knowledge that are directly relevant to the apprenticeship standard and can include:
Teaching of theory via blended delivery methods
Practical training
Work shadowing
Supported learning and time spent writing any assignments/questions.
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