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ActivitiesWhat is BC Transit’s Educational BusReady program?
BC Transit’s BusReady team believes every child can learn to ride the bus confidently and safely.
BusReady focuses on accessible transit education. It is a community initiative empowering the next generation to be safe, confident and independent transit riders.
In 2021, the Province of B.C. launched the Get on Board program, making public transit free for children aged 12 and under, the first province-wide initiative of its kind in Canada. This barrier-free access created a valuable opportunity to teach young riders how to use public transit.
Building on this momentum, BC Transit developed an online hub to support transit education for children with added resources for parents, guardians and educators. Designed by the youth transit team, the BusReady program offers resources on trip planning, safety and valuable information on how transit connects people and communities to a more sustainable future.
BC Transit’s BusReady team hopes that sparking early curiosity and engaging education creates lifelong transit riders.
Our Vision
To create generations of educated and empowered transit riders.
Benefits for Youth
Safe mode of transportation
Reduces air pollution and traffic congestion
Affordable and sustainable transportation
Teaches responsibility and time management skills
Builds confidence and independence
Healthier lifestyle with active transportation
Increase access to community resources and services
Builds social connection and community
Our Programs
Youth Resources
The BusReady website is full of educational and engaging resources, videos and activities to spark joy in learning about transit and help build skills. A key resource is the step-by-step video series that breaks down the planning, safety, accessibility, etiquette and tips on how to take transit anywhere you need to go.
When you explore the BusReady website, you’ll find it’s the first step to lifelong transit use and the better understanding of the essential role it plays for thriving communities.
Educator Resources
BusReady provides lesson plans, courses and activities suitable to encourage transit literacy and life skills. We encourage educators to discover all the free educational resources in the educator section.
School Lesson Plans and Activities
Free educational resources that can be delivered inside classrooms and support educators’ curriculum.
BusReady Ambassador In-School Presentation
The BusReady Ambassador Program provides a unique opportunity for BC teachers (kindergarten to grade 7) to schedule an in-school transit ambassador to present to their school.
The program is open to schools in participating regions in BC.
Kids Facility Tour
This educational and interactive tour is available in Victoria and Langford. It is designed for children 3 to 6 years old.
Kids get a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to keep transit service running every day in their community, including meeting the people, exploring the buses and learning about maintenance.
Parent and Guardian Resources
There are safety and educational resources parents and guardians can access to help build transit skills for the family. The frequently asked questions provide valuable information on how to prepare children to take transit on their own. It also covers information on safety, weather conditions, free fare requirements and much more. Find all resources and information in the parent and guardian section.
Recognition
Contact Us
Do you have any questions, comments or recommendations for the BusReady program?
Please contact the BC Transit youth program at:
BC Transit
520 Gorge Road East
PO Box 9861
Victoria, BC V8W 9T5
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