Durban-based Glenwood Boys High School recently took delivery of three Iveco Daily 26 seater buses from local agent KZN IVECO.
“Considering how much the buses cost to purchase and operate, we looked at a fleet that will sustain us for a very long time. Our previous fleet were also Iveco’s, purchased in 2000. With new technology in the three new units, we expect to get extended replacement cycles,” says Andri Barnes, Acting Principal.
The school has a high travel schedule so the buses are always in high demand and continuously on the road. Each bus has a dedicated, trained driver whose responsibility is the overall condition of the bus and the excellent relationship which they each have with the pupils, ensures that housekeeping rules on board are well maintained. Driver training is conducted on a regular basis to ensure consistency.
The buses have a dual function in that they are used to transport pupils from Amanzimtoti, Hillcrest and Durban North, to and from school every day as well as the sports teams to their various venues.
“We were fortunate to have Craig Drysdale, a long standing tour operator on the SGB who picked up the ball with this project and was able to advise us on the various aspects of this purchase, ensuring that the correct formalities were in place, as this was a major expenditure item for the school. Three major bus suppliers were contacted in this regard and the financial package we obtained from Iveco, taking into account the trade-in of the old units, provided a workable solution. KZN IVECO must be commended for its excellent overall service in preparing the vehicles with full school livery, culminating in the handover ceremony,” says Rob Young, Chairman of the SGB.
“The safety of the pupils was one of the main reasons for taking this route in purchasing new vehicles. In this instance we are in full control of our transport without having to rely on contractors and especially the maintenance aspect which will be entirely in the hands of the dealer,” concludes Barnes.