Rules allowing schools to run mini-buses without an Operator’s Licence and staff to drive them without any training are not being scrapped.
The NASUWT has been campaigning for changes to the Transport Act to make mini-bus operation safer but the government this week rejected the move.
Sections 19 and 22 of the Act set out permit schemes for schools meaning that individuals, including teachers, can drive mini-buses without specialist training and schools are exempt from Operator’s Licence requirements.
The NASUWT campaign argues that this is an unacceptable and dangerous situation which results in tired and already overworked teachers being asked to drive mini-buses, often for long periods or late at night.
