Young Cub Scouts in Swindon were given a hands-on introduction to bus travel last week as part of a pilot scheme designed to build confidence and independence among young people.
The session, delivered by the Get Swindon Moving Community Group, saw local Cubs invited to explore a real Stagecoach bus and learn how public transport works in everyday situations. The initiative forms part of Swindon Borough Council’s work within the town’s Enhanced Bus Partnership, supported by Stagecoach.
Two experienced Stagecoach drivers attended the session, bringing along a bus and taking time to talk the group through what to expect when travelling. From how buses operate to what help drivers can offer, the informal setting allowed the Cubs to ask questions and get comfortable with an experience that can feel daunting at first.
Discussions focused on travelling safely and respectfully, covering topics such as good behaviour on board, being mindful of other passengers and listening to the driver. Questions from the young people ranged from safety features on buses to what drivers can and cannot help with during a journey.
One of the most popular moments came when the Cubs were invited to sit in the driver’s seat, giving them a new perspective on the role and helping to break down barriers between passengers and drivers — an experience that also drew smiles from parents watching on.
To encourage families to put their new knowledge into practice, the Cubs were given West Gold Group DayRider tickets to use during the upcoming half-term break. The aim is to help them explore the region by bus and build confidence through real journeys to activities and events.
Raj Chadha, Operations Manager at Stagecoach West’s Swindon depot, said it was a pleasure to welcome the group on board. He said learning how to use the bus, understand expected behaviour and feel confident asking questions are valuable life skills, adding that Stagecoach is proud to work with the council on initiatives that help young people feel safe and comfortable using public transport.
The session is part of wider efforts through Swindon’s Enhanced Bus Partnership to promote safe, responsible and sustainable travel, particularly among younger residents.
Rachel Edgington, Public Transport Officer at Swindon Borough Council, said the council is grateful to its partners for supporting the pilot Young Travellers training programme. She said encouraging inclusive and sustainable travel among young people is a key priority, while also supporting Cubs in working towards their badges.
She added that the session represents the first step in developing a wider programme that could be expanded across other partnership areas in the future. Anyone seeking further information is encouraged to contact the Get Swindon Moving team.
By giving young people the chance to learn in a supportive, real-world environment, the initiative aims to foster confidence and positive travel habits that will last well beyond childhood.
