COUNTY council chiefs have issued new guidance for parents and carers on how school transport will operate under current restrictions ahead of the start of the new school year next week.
Children should not travel if they, or anyone else in the household, is feeling unwell or experiencing any coronavirus symptoms.
They should not travel if they have tested positive for coronavirus and are within the 10 day isolation period or sharing a household or support bubble with somebody with symptoms, have been advised by the NHS test and trace service to self-isolate or have returned from abroad and government guidance states they need to quarantine for 14 days
Coun Marcus Hart, cabinet member for Education and Skills, said: “The Coronavirus pandemic has changed the way we go about our daily routine, and travelling to school is no different.
“I’m really pleased for our students and staff that the new school term can resume, and schools are able to re-open their doors and welcome all pupils back.
“I’m really grateful to all of the staff both in our schools and at the local authority, for their hard work and dedication in adapting each part of the school day and making it Covid-secure. It’s been a fantastic effort by all involved.”
All pupils must have a valid bus pass to travel on the dedicated school transport, there will be a two week grace period at the start of term for those who have not yet received a pass.
Government guidance has confirmed that social distancing on dedicated school and college transport vehicles will not be mandatory from September (it remains a requirement on the public transport network). However, where possible distancing should be maintained.
Whilst queuing, boarding and leaving vehicles, pupils must, where possible, keep a safe distance from others and remain in their bubbles or year groups, adopted within schools.
In order to facilitate the test and trace process, pupils must use the same seat each day.
Whilst travelling, pupils should always stay seated, avoid physical contact, face forwards and away from others, and not shout or raise their voices.
Extra bus services will be provided from Tuesday to ensure that pupils can safely return to school. Normal bus timetables will continue to run with these additional, duplicate services for pupils.
Throughout the process of adapting the Home to School transport programme, meeting social distancing guidance and following public health advice has been a top priority.
Visit www.worcestershire.gov.uk for more.
