To ensure consistency of processes and practices across the school community, aspects of the Parent Handbook (currently under revision) will be published in each week’s newsletter. This week the focus is on Expectations of Behaviour on School Buses.

Transport NSW has a complete set of Guidelines for managing school students behaviour on buses. These guidelines unpack the Code of Conduct responsibilities of students, parents and school principals in relation to bus behaviour. The guidelines also indicate the consequences for a breach of the Code of Conduct.

For your information, the following is taken from section 2 of the Guidelines - Student Code of Conduct.

CODE OF CONDUCT FOR SCHOOL STUDENTS ON BUSES

It is every student's responsibility to behave in a manner that ensures the safety and comfort of passengers and drivers. This includes:

Behaviour on buses:

• Use appropriate language not offensive or racist language
• No Fighting, spitting, feet on seats, throwing things in or from the bus is not permitted
• No eating or drinking (other than water) — unless for medical reasons or the bus operator gives written permission
• Offer seats to adults including people with a disability, elderly or expectant mothers
• Do not touch, push or shove other people
• Do not bully or harass other passengers or the driver. This includes photographing, making lewd or suggestive comments, acting in a manner or participating in activities that may be deemed inappropriate or of a sexual nature.
• Avoid attracting the attention of the driver except in the case of emergency
• Do not play music at such volume that it may distract the bus driver or other passengers.

Parent Action: If your child/ren  catches a bus to or from school please familiarise yourself with these guidelines and speak regularly to your child/ren about their responsibilities on the buses.