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 €15.20 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.