All passengers have the right to travel on our general access and school bus services in a comfortable and safe environment.
At times it may be necessary for a driver to invoke disciplinary action, this may include a verbal instruction or warning or could escalate to formal actions such as a warning or Exclusion.
Safe behaviour when waiting for the bus
Leave home with plenty of time to get to the bus stop, and always walk on the footpath where possible.
Wait at the stop until your bus arrives, even if the bus is running late.
Remain quiet and orderly while waiting for the bus, including at bus interchanges.
Buses have an over-hang at the front. This means that when the bus is pulling into the stop the front of the bus might come up over the footpath slightly.
This is why you must:
Stand well back from the road when waiting for the bus (one metre or more where possible).
Wait until the bus stops completely before approaching the door.
Allow other passengers to leave the bus before stepping onto the bus in a single line.
Safe behaviour on board the bus
Always treat the driver with respect. They have the important job of getting you and others to and from school safely.
Speak quietly and do not create unnecessary noise that may distract the driver. If playing music, use headphones or keep it at a low volume.
Move towards the back of the bus (or as instructed by the bus driver) and take your seat.
Remain in your seat, wear a seatbelt where seatbelts are fitted, and do not move around the bus unnecessarily.
If you do not have a seat, move toward the back of the bus and hold on to the handgrip.
School bags should be placed under the seat, in the racks, or on your lap. They must not block the aisles, doors or emergency exits.
Make sure you know where the emergency exit is in case you ever need to use it.
Always show care, courtesy and common sense while travelling on the bus, including using appropriate language when speaking to other passengers. Swearing is not tolerated or acceptable behaviour on the school bus.
Always keep your feet on the ground and your limbs within the bus.
Take all rubbish with you when leaving the bus.
Avoid eating or drinking except for medical reasons or where the bus driver gives you permission.
Report any vandalism of the bus to your driver when it is safe to do so.
Sit in a designated seat if instructed by the bus driver.
Safe behaviour when leaving the bus
Wait until the bus has stopped before moving to exit the bus.
Be aware of outside conditions at your stop and exit in an orderly fashion.
Once you are off the bus, stand back from the road and the bus.
Never cross the road until the bus has moved away and you can see clearly in all directions.
Cross the road where and when it is safe to do so, use crossings/traffic lights where available.
If an adult meets you at the bus stop, make sure they have read the special safety message below.