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AIBU?

Share your dilemmas and get honest opinions from other Mumsnetters.

Double decker bus on motorway with infant aged kids - opinions needed!

103 replies

ThisMustBeMyDream · 10/02/2019 15:02

AIBU to feel reluctant to send my year 1 child (although I don't think it is relevant, to avoid accusations of drip feeding, he does have SEN) on a school trip that involves travelling on a double decker bus approximately 30 miles, majority motorway.
I asked school, the bus apparently has lapbelts. The reason for the choice of bus over coach is due to cost. Trip wouldn't go ahead otherwise.
My child has done a similar trip before, but I had no idea that the travel arrangements where as above. I assumed it would he minimum 3 point seat belt on a coach, which while not perfect, would offer some protection. I am angry at myself for not being aware of this on a previous trip.
I asked if my child's Ofsted registered nanny could take him, and accompany the trip. I was told no, because the head has said there are enough adults attending and he doesn't want any additional.
I have an otherwise excellent relationship with the school, and feel they are wonderful with my child.
I have to make a decision by tomorrow whether to let him go. If I don't, his SEN will make it awful for both him and the staff in the school as he won't understand why he has to miss out.
I feel a bit backed in to a corner here.
AIBU to be unhappy at the travel arrangements?

OP posts:
RumpoleoftheBaileys · 11/02/2019 21:24

I wouldn't let my child go on this.

Our school bus (and coaches for trips) are all 3-point.

I do not consider the combination of coach, simple lap belt and motorway to be safe.

Bestseller · 11/02/2019 21:29

If the issue isn't the bus but the motorway then yes yabu as motorways are actually the safest roads

PollyMycroft · 13/02/2019 08:14

Teacher here. Our risk assessments specify 3 point seatbelts because it reduces risk of injury. Risk assessments enable staff to consider risk and where it can be minimised. Some risks are harder to reduce-this one isn’t. I wouldn’t let my child go on this trip.
To compare the situation to lap belts on planes / hiw risky it is to walk to school / the safety of A road vs motorway is irrelevant. This risk could be reduced by the use of 3 point seat belts-so it should be.

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