The Framework for Independent Schools' Transport Services
The ISTAS Standard offers a structured framework to support schools in developing and maintaining safe, efficient, and well-managed transport services. It promotes best practice, compliance, and continuous improvement. At its core are nine modules, each addressing key aspects of transport safety, management, and operations.
Management
Operations
This area focuses on the oversight of the transport service and ensures that the operation is governed by robust, compliant, and up-to-date procedures.
Operations cover the day-to-day running of the transport service, focusing on efficiency, customer service, and real-time management of routes and passengers.
Drivers
This section assesses the professionalism, conduct, and training of the transport staff. Their role is central to the safety and quality of the service.
Vehicles
Vehicle Maintenance
Reviewing vehicles focuses on ensuring all transport vehicles are appropriate for the service required and meet or exceed all safety and regulatory standards.
This section evaluates the systems and records used to keep vehicles roadworthy and safe, prioritising a proactive, preventative approach over reactive repairs.
Fitness to Drive
This critical area ensures that all drivers are medically and legally fit to operate school vehicles. and considers the specific demands of transporting children.
Fitness to Drive
Licensing and Compliance
This section involves ensuring that the school has the necessary permits and adheres to legal regulations for vehicles, drivers, and operations to ensure safety and legality.
Fitness to Drive
Grey fleet management involves private vehicles used for work-related journeys. It ensures that drivers, insurance, vehicle maintenance, and safety comply with the schools legal 'duty of care' obligations.
Grey Fleet Management
Stakeholder Communication
Effective stakeholder communication is vital for independent schools, fostering trust, securing support for strategic decisions, and ensuring transparency between the school, parents, and community.
Please send me a copy of the ISTAS Standard.
Safety First
When children feel safe, their overall wellbeing is enhanced, reducing anxiety and promoting a positive school experience.
Strategic Value
By elevating transport to a strategic priority, ISTAS delivers a demonstrable, long-term return on investment.
Partnering with ISTAS is a clear demonstration that a school prioritises excellence extending its duty of care far beyond the classroom.
The Mark of Excellence