School Transport Bus Escort

Responsibilities and Duties

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

Responsibilities

• Ensure they are on the bus/taxi at the time of the first pick-up and the last set-down.
• Be responsible for the safety of children when opening and closing doors prior to the bus/taxi stopping and moving off.
• Assist children to board and alight safely from the school bus/taxi.
• Ensure all children are seated with appropriate straps or harnesses where provided.
• Ensure that each pupil is received by a responsible person at the set-down point.
• Participate in training provided from time to time.

Duties

• Supervise children travelling on the bus/taxi.
• Maintain a good working relationship with the driver of the bus/taxi.
• Act as liaison between the Principal and/or Class Teacher and parents when required, including conveying messages or letters.
• Observe confidentiality in all aspects of work.
• Be aware of the particular disabilities of children on the bus/taxi and be briefed by the Principal on how to respond appropriately (e.g. epilepsy).
• Perform any other duties relevant to the position of Escort as assigned by the Principal from time to time.
• Unless under exceptional circumstances, never leave the bus/taxi.
• Sit in a position on the bus/taxi where maximum supervision of children can be achieved, normally at the back of the bus/taxi.
• Report all concerns to the Principal and/or Class Teacher.

Person SpecificationEssential Criteria

• The minimum educational requirement for appointment to the post of Transport Escort is:
• Understand the importance of supporting children with special educational needs to facilitate their attendance at school.
• Possess strong interpersonal and communication skills to ensure positive and effective relationships with the Principal, Class Teacher, driver, parents, students and other relevant stakeholders.
• Have a calm, patient and sensitive attitude.

Desirable

• Qualification or certificate in Special Needs Assistant or Childcare.
• Experience working with children with special needs.

General Terms and Conditions of EmploymentRemuneration

The current rate of pay is €15.82 per hour, plus holiday pay, and is subject to the conditions set out by the Department of Education from time to time.

• Hourly rate of pay: €15.82 per hour (see Appendix 3 of Circular 0020/2025).
• Holiday pay is calculated at 8% of the hourly rate, which is currently €1.27 (€15.82 × 8%).
• Holiday pay is paid separately during the Christmas, Easter and summer breaks.
• Bus Escorts are entitled to claim applicable social welfare entitlements during summer closures.

Garda Vetting

Appointment is subject to Kildare and Wicklow ETB receiving a satisfactory eVetting disclosure from the National Vetting Bureau.