Petition · Department for Transport
School Minibus Safety - Remove Section 19 Exemptions for Schools
Closed
2,280 signatures
What the petition asks
We call on the Government to remove Section 19 exemptions for schools in the Transport Act 1985, so children and young people are only driven by qualified, professional drivers, and that minibuses are maintained to commercial standards, by requiring a full Public Service Vehicle Operator’s Licence.
In November 1993, a minibus carrying young people home to a Worcestershire school from a school trip to London crashed into a lorry, killing 13 people. The trip took place after the school day and the crash occurred just after midnight. We lost our daughter Claire in that crash.
A teacher, or support staff member can still, thirty years later, work all day, and then drive a school minibus for long distances without further training or qualifications.
All children, young people and staff must Come Home Safe.
A teacher, or support staff member can still, thirty years later, work all day, and then drive a school minibus for long distances without further training or qualifications.
All children, young people and staff must Come Home Safe.
Timeline
| 18 Feb 2025 | Petition opened for signatures |
| 18 Aug 2025 | Closed to new signatures |
Key facts
Signatures
2,280
Status
Closed
Department
Department for Transport
Opened
18 Feb 2025
Closed
18 Aug 2025
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Source: the official petition page. Last checked 31 Jul 2026.