To ask the Minister of Education (i) how many escorts are used to help children with special educational needs or disabilities get to school; and (ii) what guidelines are given to escorts to ensure children access and leave vehicles safely.

The Education Authority has advised that it currently employs 513 escorts to assist with home to school transport for pupils with special educational needs or medical needs. All Education Authority employed escorts are issued with an Escorts Instruction Manual and receive additional instruction and training as deemed necessary to meet the specific needs of pupils under their supervision.

All home to school bus drivers employed by the EA must hold a D Licence, Driver Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC) card, Digital Tachograph Card and Access NI Certificate before taking up their position. Drivers of private operator buses and taxis contracted by the Education Authority to assist with home to school transport services are required to provide evidence of a D Licence (or D1 for minibus), hold a CPC card and have a current Access NI certificate. Such evidence is to be provided to the EA prior to commencement of the contract and with updated copies provided throughout the duration of their contract.

When in employment drivers receive regular CPC training and Passenger Assisted Training Scheme Training. Additional training on special educational needs or medical needs is provided as necessary to meet the needs of the pupils being transported.