About Company
National Express Transport Solutions is a leading provider of reliable, safe, and comfortable transport services across the UK, deeply committed to connecting communities and ensuring passengers reach their destinations safely and on time. With a proud heritage and an unwavering focus on customer satisfaction, we specialize in a range of transport solutions, including critical school services. Our school transport division is dedicated to providing peace of mind for parents and a secure, friendly journey for students, understanding the immense trust placed in us to transport the next generation. We operate with the highest standards of safety, vehicle maintenance, and driver training, fostering a culture where every team member is valued and plays a crucial role in our success. Joining our team means becoming part of a trusted national brand that invests in its people and prioritizes welfare and professional growth.
Job Description
Are you an experienced, safety-conscious, and dependable driver with a passion for ensuring the safe transit of children? National Express Transport Solutions is actively seeking a dedicated School Bus Driver to join our early shift team, serving the vibrant community of Notting Hill, London. This crucial full-time role involves transporting students to and from various schools within the Notting Hill area during early morning hours, ensuring their journey is not only safe but also pleasant and punctual.
As an Early Shift School Bus Driver, you will be the friendly face our students see at the start of their day, playing a vital part in their daily routine. Your primary responsibility will be to operate a school bus safely and efficiently, adhering strictly to scheduled routes and timetables. Beyond driving, this role requires a strong sense of responsibility for the welfare of young passengers, excellent communication skills to interact professionally with students, parents, and school staff, and the ability to maintain discipline and order on the bus in a calm and authoritative manner.
We are looking for individuals who possess a valid PCV (Passenger Carrying Vehicle) licence, a current Driver Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC), and a proven track record of safe driving. You will be expected to conduct pre-and post-trip vehicle inspections, report any defects promptly, and ensure the bus remains clean and presentable. Punctuality, reliability, and a commitment to providing an outstanding service are paramount. If you thrive in a responsible role that directly impacts the community and you are dedicated to upholding the highest standards of safety and professionalism, we encourage you to apply. This is an opportunity to join a reputable national company that values its employees and offers a supportive working environment with opportunities for professional development.
Key Responsibilities
- Safely operate a school bus on designated routes, adhering to traffic laws and company policies.
- Ensure timely pick-up and drop-off of students according to established schedules.
- Conduct thorough pre-trip and post-trip vehicle inspections, reporting any mechanical defects or safety concerns immediately.
- Maintain a clean and tidy bus interior and exterior.
- Supervise students during transit, ensuring their safety and adherence to bus rules.
- Communicate effectively and professionally with students, parents, school personnel, and company management.
- Manage passenger behaviour in a calm, firm, and respectful manner.
- Complete all necessary paperwork, including trip sheets, incident reports, and passenger logs.
- Adhere to all relevant health and safety regulations, including safeguarding policies for children.
- Attend mandatory training sessions and meetings as required.
Required Skills
- Valid PCV (Category D) driving licence.
- Current Driver Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC) qualification.
- Demonstrable experience as a professional driver, preferably with passenger transport.
- Clean driving record with no endorsements.
- Excellent knowledge of road safety regulations and defensive driving techniques.
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills, particularly with children and parents.
- Patience, reliability, and a responsible attitude.
- Ability to perform basic vehicle checks and identify potential issues.
- Punctual and dependable with a strong work ethic.
- Ability to work early morning shifts consistently.
Preferred Qualifications
- Previous experience as a school bus driver or transporting vulnerable passengers.
- Local knowledge of Notting Hill and surrounding London areas.
- Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check, or willingness to undergo one.
- First Aid certification.
- Familiarity with digital tachographs and journey management systems.
Perks & Benefits
- Competitive hourly wage with opportunities for overtime.
- Comprehensive training and ongoing professional development.
- Company uniform provided.
- Work with a reputable national transport provider.
- Pension scheme membership.
- Generous holiday allowance.
- Supportive team environment.
- Contribution to a vital community service.
- Access to employee welfare programs.
How to Apply
If you are a highly motivated and safety-conscious individual eager to contribute to a leading transport company, we invite you to apply. Please click on the application link below to visit our careers page. Search for ‘Driver’ roles in the London area and submit your application online. We look forward to reviewing your application!