School Transport Bus Escort

The responsibilities and duties listed below are general in scope and are not meant to be exhaustive in relation to the work to be undertaken by a School Transport Bus Escort

Responsibilities

·         Must ensure that they are on the bus/taxi at time of first pick-up and last set down.

·         Are responsible for the safety of children when opening and closing doors prior to ‘stop’ and ‘move off’.

·         Assisting children to board and alight safely from the school bus/taxi.

·         Making sure all children are seated with appropriate straps or harnesses where provided.

·         Ensure that each pupil is received by some responsible person at the set down point.

·         The Escort is expected to participate in training which will be provided from time to time

Duties

·         Supervision of children travelling on bus/taxi.

·         Maintain a good working relationship with the driver of the bus/taxi.

·         Act as liaison between Principal and/or Class Teacher and parents when required i.e. conveyance of messages or letters to parents.

·         Observe confidentiality in all aspects of work.

·         Be aware of particular disabilities of children on the bus/taxi and be briefed by the Principal on how to deal with same, e.g. epilepsy etc.

·         Perform any other duties relevant to the position of escort which may be assigned by the Principal from time to time.

·         Unless under exceptional circumstances, the escort should never leave the bus/taxi.

·         The Escorts position on the bus should be where maximum control of children is achieved i.e. at back of bus/taxi.

·         Report all concerns to the Principal and/or Class Teacher.

Person Specification

Essential Criteria

• The minimum required standard of education for appointment to the post of Transport Escort is:-

o   A FETAC Level 3 major qualification on the National Framework of Qualifications, OR

o   A minimum of three grade Ds in the Junior Certificate, OR

o   Equivalent.

·         Understands the importance of supporting children with special educational needs in order to facilitate their attendance at school.

·         Strong interpersonal and communication skills to ensure positive and effective relationships with principal/class teacher, driver, parents, students and other relevant stakeholders.

• Have a calm, patient and sensitive attitude.

Desirable:

• Qualification/certificate in the area of: Special Needs Assistant / Childcare.
• Experience of working with children with special needs.

General Terms and Conditions of Employment:

• Remuneration: The rate of pay is currently €13.40 per hour and is subject to the conditions set out by the Department of Education from time to time.

• Garda Vetting: The appointment is subject to Kildare and Wicklow ETB receiving a satisfactory evetting disclosure from the National Vetting Bureau.