Job Description

Become a part of our team as a fractional school transport professional, operating Monday through Friday during academic terms for six hours daily!

Steer your career in a new direction with us! We are looking for dependable individuals to join our ranks as seasoned coach and bus operators, or those interested in qualifying as a trainee bus driver on a part-time basis. You will be tasked with the secure transit of students to and from specified destinations. This position is perfectly suited for those with a deep commitment to our local community!

Responsibilities

Manage a school transport vehicle along designated paths following a fixed timetable.
Maintain the protection and security of all passengers at all times.
Help students with getting on and off the vehicle as required.
Comply strictly with all road safety laws and transit regulations.
Conduct routine vehicle safety checks before starting and after finishing each shift.

Experience

Past background as a courier or in a comparable transport position is beneficial.
Comfort with handling larger scale vehicles is a plus.
History of operating buses or coaches is highly valued.
Effective interpersonal skills for engaging with students and colleagues.

Pay rates and schedule

Academy Instruction: (Initial 6–8 weeks while earning your PCV license): £12.41 hourly.
Qualified Rate: £14.00 – £14.50 hourly once fully certified.
Work Days: Monday through Friday.
Shift Pattern: 6 hours daily (3 hours in the morning and 3 hours in the afternoon) coinciding with school bell times.
Calendar: Active during term-time only.

If you are a motivated individual with a love for driving and a desire to support the local area, we invite you to apply for this rewarding role.

Job Data Table

Category	Details
Company Name	Reading Buses (Newbury & District)
Location	Thatcham / Newbury, United Kingdom
Locality	West Berkshire
Country	United Kingdom
City	Thatcham
Region	South East
Job Type	Part-time (Term-time only)
Salaries	£14.50 per hour
Experience Level	Trainee or Experienced
Travel	Local school routes
Language	English
Benefits	Company pension, Cycle to work, Free/subsidised travel, Sick pay

Skills & Competency Table

Skill	Competency Level
Vehicle Operation	Advanced
Passenger Safety	Expert
Schedule Adherence	Expert
Routine Inspection	Proficient
Communication	Advanced
Community Engagement	Proficient

Salaries Pay Calculator Table

Annual Salary	Bonus	Total Compensation	Notes
£16,965 (Term-time)	Not Specified	£14.50 per hour	Based on 30 hours per week for 39 school weeks per year.

Job Summary

This Thatcham-based role involves driving a school bus for 6 hours daily during term-time. Split into morning and afternoon shifts, you will ensure student safety and follow precise routes. It is a perfect community-focused position for reliable drivers or trainees looking for a consistent, part-time schedule with local benefits.

FAQs

What are the specific working hours?

The role requires 30 hours per week, split into 3 hours every morning and 3 hours every afternoon, Monday to Friday.

Do I need a special license to apply?

You can apply as a trainee with a clean UK car license; Reading Buses provides an academy to help you earn your bus (PCV) license.

Is this a year-round position?

No, this is a term-time only role, meaning you work only when schools are open, roughly 39 weeks a year.

What is the pay during the training period?

While in the Academy (first 6–8 weeks), the pay rate is £12.41 per hour before rising to the qualified rate.

Are there travel perks?

Yes, employees often receive free or subsidised travel on Reading Buses and sister companies as part of their benefits.

Expert Analysis

In 2026, term-time driving roles are highly sought after by parents and semi-retirees due to the “split-shift” flexibility. Reading Buses’ Academy is a significant perk, as it covers the cost of PCV training—a qualification that usually costs thousands. At £14.50/hour, this exceeds the national average for similar school transport roles.

Location & Logistics Guide

Thatcham and Newbury are neighboring towns in West Berkshire. The depot is located at Greenham Business Park (RG19 6HN), providing easy access to local schools. The area is well-connected via the A4 and A34, making it a convenient base for drivers living in Reading, Basingstoke, or rural Berkshire.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Thatcham

Career Path

A School Bus Driver can transition into full-time Service Driving, where higher salaries and overtime are available. Within Reading Buses, employees can progress to Driver Mentor, Driving Instructor, or even move into engineering and operations management through internal “Trade Up” schemes and professional development programs at the Accor Academy.

To apply for this job please visit www.simplyhired.co.uk.