When it comes to educational establishments organising home to school transport, school trips in the UK or visits abroad, one thing is very clear - teachers are trained to teach.
Teachers are not transport managers and often are not fully aware of the legal obligations required of them in order that they fulfil their duty of care of pupils, other members of staff and anyone else traveling with them (such as parent helpers).
Unfortunately for schools, if something goes wrong and a teacher, bursar or school governor end up in court, they will not be able to raise a defence by claiming that they did not understand the subject or the laws surrounding the transportation of others.
The first step is to prepare a Transport Policy document (this could be as little as a single A4 sheet). It should show that you have the key information, understand relevant law and maintain an audit trail of all decisions taken regarding transport arrangements. It should also indicate that all reasonable steps have been taken to protect children in your care.
Secondly - using purpose built vehicles with every conceivable safety feature built in not only ensures the safety of those in your care - but also protects the establishment in the event of unforeseen circumstances.
By taking advantage of flexible lease or rental agreements - there’s no need to commit to capital expenditure - or worry about maintenance and compliance issues.
Remember - decisions or procedures that lead to the death of someone in your care could result in a corporate manslaughter charge (and/or a Publicity Order where a court can order the school to advertise in the media that they were guilty of killing someone).
Has your school done everything it needs to? If in doubt then just contact a member of the BUSK team today on 01633 274944
About BUSKBUSK works throughout the UK and has seventeen years experience helping schools and local authorities to set up sound policy documents such as Transport and Seat Belt Policies, Emergency Procedures etc., and also designs and produces resource materials for use in schools which are supported by the emergency services and the transport industry.
BUSK has a new website that will be launched shortly which you will be able to visit at www.busk-uk.com
BUSK, 18 Windsor Road, Newport, Gwent, NP19 8NS.
Tel: 01633 274944
Email: buskuk@aol.com