ONLY use school transport if there is no safe or practical alternative.

That is the message from Cumbria County Council in the run-up to school’s re-opening next month.

A spokesman Cumbria County Council said drivers on dedicated school bus routes have been vetted and checked for coronavirus.

A spokesperson for Stagecoach said: “Our drivers have a protective screen that acts as a barrier, so they don’t need to wear a face covering. If the driver needs to leave their cab to help a customer or a schoolchild, they must wear a face covering.”

The key messages for pupils and parents is that school transport should only be used if there is no safe or practical alternative, such as walking or cycling. Social distancing will not apply on dedicated school transport.

Face coverings should be worn wherever possible while travelling, however these will not be provided.

Hand sanitiser will be provided on board all dedicated school transport vehicles and it should be used by pupils when getting on and getting off the bus.

Children should try to sit within their school bubbles on vehicles, but this is not a requirement and will not always be possible. Schools may have arranged a seating plan on the vehicle, parents should ensure their child is aware of this, and follows the school instructions.

Children should not travel to school if they are experiencing any Coronavirus (COVID-19) symptoms.

Cllr Sue Sanderson, cabinet member for schools and learning, said: “We know that these are uncertain times for families as they prepare to send their children back to school, and that they will have concerns and questions about school transport. This has been a challenging time for schools and transport providers as they adapt to changing national guidance.”