Yellow buses go on 20,000 school trips

Date published: 25 February 2008

Yellow School Buses are proving so popular that they were used for nearly 20,000 school trips in Greater Manchester last year.

Greater Manchester Passenger Transport Authority already pays for the buses to take pupils to and from Falinge Park High School in Rochdale. But schools across the borough are also hiring them for trips to museums, sports centres and theatres.

Councillor Allen Brett, Rochdale’s spokesperson on the Passenger Transport Authority, said: "I’m pleased that schools are hiring the buses for trips as it means they’re being put to good use and not standing empty during the day.

"The Yellow School Buses are all fitted with CCTV, seatbelts and a lift for wheelchairs so it makes sense for schools to use them for trips out. All of the drivers have also had criminal records checks and have been specially trained to look after children.

"The buses have helped to cut antisocial behaviour on journeys to and from schools by 75% since they were introduced, and teachers have also praised them for improving attendance levels. I’m sure local schools will continue to benefit from them in the future."

There are now 36 Yellow School Buses in Greater Manchester, which take more than 2,000 pupils to and from 22 schools. Children who travel on the buses sit in the same seats every day, have regular drivers, and have to sign up to a code of conduct.

The Yellow School Bus drivers have taken part in a special training programme, which includes customer care, first aid, disability awareness, health and safety, and conflict avoidance.

Another 120 Yellow School Buses could be introduced at schools across Greater Manchester over the next few years if the bid to the government’s Transport Innovation Fund is successful.

More information about the Yellow School Buses, including a full list of services, is available at:

• www.yellowschoolbus.info