Using school transport in Highland
12th August 2020
Pupils travelling by dedicated school transport.
‘Dedicated school transport' means transport which is only available to pupils. This includes most of our school transport contracts.
Physical distancing is not required between pupils on dedicated school transport. This is the same as the guidance within school buildings. However, where possible there should be distancing of 1m between pupils and adults e.g. where there are passenger assistants on board.
We do not require the use of face coverings on dedicated school transport, but pupils may wear face coverings if they wish to do so. The Council will support any pupil’s decision to wear a face covering.
Pupils travelling by public transport
Public transport buses are also used for school transport in many locations, where pupils and other passengers travel in the same vehicle. Occasionally, public ferry services also form part of the school transport.
On public transport, where possible physical distancing of 1m is required between all passengers. Where school transport zones are in use, physical distancing is not required between pupils, even though it is required between passengers in other seats.
Pupils are required to wear face coverings if using public transport (unless medically exempt) including school transport zones within public bus services. Face coverings must also be worn in enclosed areas on public ferry services but are not compulsory on open decks.
Your transport contractor should advise you if they are requiring the use of face coverings beyond the minimum requirement
Staying safe on transport
Hands should be washed or hand sanitiser used before travelling. It is parents’ responsibility to ensure that this is done. Most transport operators will not provide hand sanitiser on their vehicles but some may choose to do so; this will depend on their operating conditions and their own risk assessments. Hand sanitiser is available in schools and should be used before the homeward journey.
Please note that parents are responsible for providing face coverings. Pupils must store these safely while in school
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