Dear Parents and Carers,

It has been great welcoming all our students K-6 back to school this week! As we return to school routines some reminders for those students who travel to and from school by bus. Please revise these safety guidelines with your children. 

Travelling Safely on School Buses 

Students are expected to follow these rules for the safety and comfort of all passengers, including themselves. If the rules are not followed, it may lead to the suspension of students or banning students from travelling on buses.

It is every student’s responsibility to behave in a manner that ensures the safety and comfort of passengers and drivers. This includes: 

Behaviour on buses: 

• Use appropriate language not offensive or racist language 
• Fighting, spitting, feet on seats, throwing things in or from the bus is not permitted 
• Do not push or shove other people
• Do not bully or harass other passengers or the driver 
• Avoid attracting the attention of the driver except in the case of emergency 
• Do not play music at such volume that it may distract the bus driver or other passengers

Safety on and near buses:

• Obey reasonable directions from the driver (e.g. where to sit or to remain in the bus) 
• Remain in your seat – do not move around the bus unnecessarily
• Keep bags and other items clear of the aisle 
• Do not allow any part of your body to protrude out of the bus at any time 
• Wait for the bus in a quiet and orderly manner – including at bus interchanges 
• Stand away from the roadside until the bus comes to a complete stop 
• Allow other passengers to leave the bus before stepping onto the bus in a single line 
• Wait until the bus stops before moving to get off the bus at your designated stop 
• Wait until the bus leaves the stop and you have clear vision before crossing the road 
• Cross the road where and when it’s safe to do so, use crossings/traffic lights where available

Legal considerations on buses: 

• Wear the seat belt properly adjusted and fastened, if one is available
• Ensure that buses are not vandalised – report any damage, e.g. graffiti and window etching, to the driver 
• Do not interfere with bus property, equipment and signage 
• Do not leave rubbish on the bus, or at bus stops or interchanges

It is important that students catching the bus report any unsafe behaviour to the driver, their parents and the school.

God bless and take care