School Bus Driver at Discovering Talents Academy

Discovering Talents Academy, a fast-growing Nursery and Primary School in Gwarinpa, Abuja, offers first class education from preschool to primary levels. Discovering Talents Academy uses the Blended Nigeria-Montessori curriculum in Early Years and a Blended Nigeria-British curriculum at the primary level. Discovering Talents Academy does not only focus on best practices in the teaching and learning process, it also builds talents in a wide range of skills and this in a short while affirms their ego and builds their confidence. At Discovering Talents Academy we believe that every child is unique and talented, this drive leads us to establishing rich skill aquisition programmes for students.

We are recruiting to fill the position below:

Job Title: School Bus Driver

Location: Gwarinpa, Abuja (FCT) 
Employment Type: Full-time

Job Summary

• The School Driver at Discovering Talents Academy (DTA) is responsible for providing safe, reliable, and efficient transportation services for students, staff, and school-related activities.
• This role is paramount in ensuring the well-being of our pupils during transit and maintaining the school's commitment to safety and operational excellence.
• The Driver will adhere strictly to all DTA transportation policies and procedures, contributing to a secure and positive environment for everyone.

Key Responsibilities
Safe Vehicle Operation & Transportation:

• Operate school vehicles (buses, cars) safely and responsibly, adhering strictly to all traffic regulations, speed limits (e.g., maximum 60 km/h in residential areas), and road safety rules.
• Prioritize the safety of all passengers (students and staff) during every trip.
• Conduct morning pick-ups and afternoon drop-offs according to designated routes and schedules.
• Assist pupils in safely boarding and alighting the vehicle, ensuring no hurrying or pushing.
• Collaborate effectively with the Bus Attendant to monitor student behavior and ensure an orderly environment on the bus.
• Refrain from answering phone calls while driving and maintain respect towards other road users.
• Ensure the bus adheres strictly to scheduled pupil pick-up and drop-off points; no unauthorized halts or picking up of unassigned individuals.

Vehicle Maintenance & Care:

• Perform daily pre-trip checks, including fluid levels (engine oil, water/coolant, steering oil), tire pressure, battery, lighting systems (headlights, brake lights, indicators), and window/door functionality.
• Warm up the vehicle's engine for 5-10 minutes before take-off.
• Maintain the cleanliness of the vehicle, both interior and exterior, on a daily basis (washing exterior after morning pick-up, cleaning interior after evening drop-off, general cleaning on Saturdays).
• Conduct continuous and diligent checks to ensure the ongoing roadworthiness of the vehicle.
• Report any fault or anomaly discovered on the vehicle immediately in the designated vehicle maintenance update book.
• Ensure vehicles are fueled every Wednesday and Saturday, or as needed.
• Ensure vehicles are serviced strictly as and when due, following the maintenance schedule.
• Oversee mechanical repairs by taking the vehicle to the authorized mechanic, explaining the fault, staying during the repair, and test-running the vehicle afterward.

Security & Compliance:

• Ensure the school bus is properly secured at all times, including winding up windows and locking doors after use.
• Maintain a valid driver's license and ensure timely renewal.
• Ensure all vehicle documents (registration, insurance) are complete, intact, and readily available.
• Adhere to all DTA Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for School Drivers.
• Submit vehicle keys and bus phone to the Admin Officer after morning pick-up and evening drop-off.
• Be available for Saturday duties as assigned, including general cleaning and maintenance.

Communication & Reporting:

• Communicate effectively with the Bus Attendant regarding student behavior, safety, and operational matters.
• Report any delays in pupil pick-up/drop-off to the Admin Officer immediately.
• Document observations regarding driving habits, vehicle issues, and pupil behavior in daily reports.
• Communicate using the English language while on duty.

Qualifications

• Education: Minimum of a Secondary School Leaving Certificate.
• License: Valid and current professional driver's license.
• Experience: Minimum of [e.g., 3-5] years of proven experience as a professional driver, preferably in a school or passenger transport setting.
• Knowledge: Thorough knowledge of local traffic laws, road safety regulations, and basic vehicle maintenance. Familiarity with DTA's routes is an advantage.
• Skills: Excellent driving skills, strong observational skills, and ability to manage time efficiently.
• Personal Attributes: Patient, responsible, reliable, punctual, and a calm demeanor, especially when interacting with children.

Key Competencies:

• Safe Driving Practices
• Vehicle Maintenance & Care
• Punctuality & Reliability
• Adherence to Regulations & SOPs
• Customer Service (with students & parents)
• Problem-Solving (minor vehicle issues, route challenges)
• Communication & Reporting
• Responsibility & Accountability
• Commitment to Child Safety.

Application Closing Date
31st August, 2025.