Reasons for the increase in car journeys taking children to school in the UK are discussed, including a trend for more children to live beyond reasonable walking distance to school. Ways of providing a realistic alternative to the car are outlined, including factors to be taken into account when planning a school bus service. Ways of controlling costs are considered, including staggered school days and school term harmonisation. Quality of service issues discussed include bus quality, types of contract, contract management, drivers, and provision of bus terminals at schools. Fares / marketing, awareness / education, tackling problem behaviour, and appraisal, funding and monitoring are considered. Annexes provide information on policy and legislative framework, and a summary of research.
Samenvatting