School Bus Driver is a person who is responsible for ensuring the health, safety and welfare of the children, staff and volunteers during bus transportation to and from the centre and on field trips. It is also the duty of a Bus Driver to guarantee that the bus is clean and in proper working condition at all times; determine and follow safe and efficient bus routes; ensure all children are in age-appropriate child safety restraints; assist in ensuring child/staff ratio is maintained on the bus and provide day to day guidance to the Bus Aides; maintain all transportation records required by the program; ensure bus evacuation drills are held at least monthly; and, evacuate children in case of emergency The Bus Driver also acts as a link between the parents and the school teachers. The job of a School Bus Driver is responsible enough as they carrying many lives inside the bus.
Education-
Though there is no special educational qualification for becoming a School Bus Driver yet they should be educated possibly 8th,10th or 12th class pass.
Licence: Having a Valid Permanent Driving Licence
Age: Be at least 18 years old
Other requirements:
Knowledge-
- Knowledge of record keeping system
- Knowledge of highway and school bus regulation
- Knowledge of how to deal with children with special needs
- Knowledge of how to deal with children
- Knowledge of scheduling system and procedures
- Knowledge of equipment cleaning standards and procedures
Personal Attributes-
- Uniforms are required in this occupation
- Be honest and trustworthy
- Be respectful
- Possess cultural awareness and sensitivity
- Be flexible
- Demonstrate sound work ethics
- Deal with the public in a positive, courteous and respectful manner
Physical Demands-
The School Bus Driver has a moderately strenuous job. The Driver must sit for long periods and requires intense concentration, particularly in poor driving conditions.
Environmental Conditions-
The School Bus Driver must work in all different weather conditions including extreme cold and extreme heat.
Sensory Demands-
The School Bus Driver requires intense concentration
Mental Demands-
The Driver must maintain order and discipline on the bus while driving in a safe and appropriate manner. Stress can be caused by the need to address behaviour issues and discipline problems.
School Bus Driver Required Skills
- School Bus Drivers should have the ability to operate the school bus in a safe and responsible manner; client service and the public; interaction skills; team building; analytical and problem solving; skills and decision-making skills.
- They should have the ability to complete a pre-vehicle inspection, manoeuvre the school bus in a defined area and drive it on the road.
- You must know how to turn, back up, drive in narrow lanes, and follow procedures at railroad crossings and other skills.
- They also possess a good sense of direction; the ability to work with people from a range of backgrounds; a friendly and courteous manner; good driving skills and knowledge of defensive driving techniques and to be responsible and honest.
How to become School Bus Driver?
One has to follow below-given steps for becoming a School Bus Driver-
Step 1
After passing their Driving Licence Test or having a valid Licence, candidates have to apply for driving posts in schools/colleges/universities or at other driving-related jobs. Schools authorities recruit them after taking driving tests i.e. driving school buses on roads, etc.
Step 2
At some of the schools, candidates are required to have driving training again so as to have better driving performance later.
School Bus Driver Job Description
School bus drivers pick up students at stops along established routes and drop them off at school. They may also transport students and faculty to special events, such as field trips or sporting events.
School Bus Driver Career Prospects
School Bus Drivers work with large vehicles designed for public transport such as buses, coaches and trams. They usually work alone as a driver, but if operating a tourist coach, they may work alongside a tour guide. Some urban bus drivers may also be joined by security personnel on occasions. They usually work in shifts, which may include early mornings, late nights, weekends and public holidays. Their work may be stressful at times, as they may have to deal with difficult passengers and drive during peak hour and in bad weather conditions.
School Bus Driver Salary
School Bus Drivers can expect to earn approximately Rs. 10,000 to Rs. 15, 000 per month in starting. Their salary increases with an increase in work performance, time and driving experience.
