Protecting Drivers and Pupils on the School Run

BUSK, the organisation that campaigns for the safe transportation of school children on bus and coaches, has had its ‘Protecting Drivers and Pupils on the School Run’ course upgraded to a full day CPC course following its introduction at the end of last year as a half day module.

Operators who want to know more about the course can attend a taster day on 18 October at ARVAL UK, Swindon. Registration is at 10.00 for a 10.30 start, with an estimated finish time of 15.30. Lunch and refreshments are provided and there is a minimal charge of just £20 to cover costs.

The course writer will be presenting sections of the programme, which will include group discussions and attendee participation.

The course ‘recognises that keeping children safe is everyone’s responsibility and offers guidance to drivers, bus companies, schools and parents to ensure a policy and practice is provided; part of which requires and enables drivers to recognise potential welfare issues and to have appropriate, suitable and sufficient means by which they can immediately report and record any concerns.’

It also has the full support of Paul and Caroline Vodden, whose eleven-year-old son Ben was found unconscious in his bedroom by his parents after being repeatedly bullied on the school bus.

The coroner recorded an open verdict but noted that the bullying on the bus and the inappropriate behaviour of the bus driver had clearly been a factor in the events which led to his tragic death, a month before his 12th birthday

His parents commented: “We are convinced that training for school bus, coach and minibus drivers would help to safeguard both pupils and drivers and are delighted to support BUSK’s training course to this end.  We would urge coach companies and drivers to undertake this course in memory of Ben to ensure that such a tragic occurrence is never repeated.”

Spaces are limited, so to ensure that you have a place, please call Pat Harris on 07926116631 or email: [email protected]

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