Norfolk and Suffolk County Councils are supporting 30 local people to become HGV drivers under the Skills Bootcamps scheme, with the trainees put through their paces by HGV driver training specialist HGVC.
The funds from Norfolk and Suffolk County Councils will help to address the cost of training - one of the main barriers to entry for aspiring HGV drivers.
The HGV Skills Bootcamps, which offer flexible courses of up to 16 weeks, were first launched in December 2021 and have now been extended into 2025 by the DfE.
HGVC will focus on supporting the 30 novice drivers to gain their Category C licence. The courses are available to anyone in the region with a car driving licence.
Trainees are currently learning the theory and practical aspects of becoming an HGV driver and will have passed their tests by October.
Norfolk and Suffolk employers can take on these 30 drivers immediately and have them ready for the autumn, ahead of peak season.
James Clifford, HGVC chief executive, said: “Funding is a significant barrier to entry for those looking to become HGV drivers. So these fully funded places through Norfolk and Suffolk County Councils are essential to help local people secure a well-paid career.
”By providing these courses, we are training the new drivers that businesses across Norfolk and Suffolk need to meet customer demand and grow and support the regional economy.
“We have a tried and tested approach to managing HGV driver training that has resulted in thousands getting good HGV jobs across the UK. At 80%, our pass rates are significantly higher than the national average. We’re encouraging local employers to contact us if they are looking for new HGV drivers.”
Bev Wallman from Suffolk County Council, added: “HGV drivers are essential for many local businesses based across Suffolk and Norfolk, from retailers and logistics firms to the region’s farmers and food producers.
”That’s why we’ve invested in helping train 30 new HGV drivers that can help these organisations grow. What’s more, we’re helping local people get a job in a well-paid and vital sector.”
Employers interested in employing any of these new HGV drivers should email: info@hgvc.co.uk.
