On The Buses: Edge Transition Programme Travel Training with East Coast Buses
We were very excited to welcome the team from East Coast Buses & Lothian Buses, who brought one of their big double-deckers to Edge HQ yesterday. The visit provided the Edge Transitions Programme with the opportunity to investigate the bus and find out all about bus travel without any other passengers - a private bus, all to ourselves what a treat!
The team from East Coast Buses and Lothian Buses provided invaluable travel training hints and tips for hassle-free bus travel, in and around Edinburgh and East Lothian. It was a chance to practice hailing a bus, boarding the bus, using their bus passes and most importantly what to do if they need help. We learnt a lot of interesting facts about buses, learned how to issue tickets as a driver and even sit in the driver’s seat.
When travelling on a bus, it can seem daunting and overwhelming at times. Thanks to the expert information from our friends at East Coast and Lothian Buses, the Transitions Programme students are now well on their way to building the confidence and skills needed to travel safely by bus.
Top 5 Bus Travel Tips
We’ve covered some of the important hints and tips below but keep an eye out for our handy travel guide we will be sharing in the coming week or so.
When hailing a bus, give the driver a friendly wave and step forward slightly so they notice you and stop. Just remember to stay on the pavement, do not step out into the road
Once the bus has stopped, make sure you have your bus pass or change ready to help with quick and easy boarding
When finding a seat on the bus remember there are dedicated spaces for buggies and wheelchairs so be mindful of other passengers
Look at the screens on the buses as these tell you which stop is next so you know when to ring the bell and get off - the bell signals to the driver when a passenger wants to get off. One ring only!
If you need any help, ask the Driver - all East Coast & Lothian Buses drivers are there to help you with your journey so if you miss your stop or need help, they are always available to assist you
Practice Makes Perfect
Building the confidence to travel by bus will come with lots practice, we will be putting these hints and tips to good use as we continue with travel training throughout the Transitions Programme. Travelling by bus with confidence offers the freedom and life skills to visit new places and have lots of adventures.
Thank you!
We are extremely thankful to the team at East Coast Buses and Lothian Buses for this fantastic opportunity to explore the bus in more detail. We learned so much about buses and had lots of fun learning about travelling by bus around Edinburgh and East Lothian. We’re already looking forward to our next bus adventure!
