How do you wait safely at the bus stop? Where should you put your school bag? And what’s important when getting off the bus? For 21 Year 1 pupils in Oldendorf, these questions were on the timetable on 29 October. Together with our bus drivers Bianca and Patricia, they practised the correct behaviour on and around the bus at the KVG Bus School.
Learning straight on the bus
At our bus safety school, the children try things out, watch and take part. Even on the way to the bus, the children learn what they need to look out for. Then they set off on a journey together: whilst one of our staff members is at the wheel, the other explains how to behave safely whilst travelling, what to bear in mind at the doors and where to put their school bags.
At a bus stop with little traffic, the children practise getting off the bus safely. They learn to watch out for cyclists passing by and never to cross the road immediately in front of or behind the bus. The concept of the blind spot is also explained clearly.
Fridolin shows why social distancing is important
In Stade, our mascot Fridolin helps the training team. Placed by the kerb, it demonstrates how far the front of a vehicle can swing out onto the pavement as it pulls up. This helps the children understand why they need to keep a safe distance from the kerb whilst waiting.
Everyday questions about travelling by bus are also discussed: What sort of ticket do I need? What should I do if I’ve left something on the bus? And why aren’t bags allowed on empty seats?
Two colleagues with a wealth of experience
Bianca has been with the bus driving school since 2010, initially in Buxtehude. Patricia has been with us for four years. Together, they teach the rules through practical exercises and clear explanations. They are sometimes assisted in this by our trainees.
One memory in particular has stayed with Bianca: a Year 1 class from Neu Wulmstorf had specially learnt a song and performed it for their teachers on the bus after the ‘bus school’ session as a thank-you.
Our bus driving school will also come to you
This programme is aimed at schools and nurseries in the districts of Stade, Harburg and Heidekreis. Our training team will travel by bus directly to your school or to a nearby bus stop. The bus safety session lasts around one and a half hours. Most sessions take place between March and the summer holidays, with a few also held at other times of the year.
Would you like to enquire about the bus school for your class or nursery group? You can find further information, contact details and the online registration form here.
