[Bobjork]

Originally Posted by G-CPTN

I would think that, even though the pupils don't pay, the operation would be classed as 'hire or reward' as the operator gets paid (and, indeed, pays his son).

I have observed coaches collecting pupils from schools, and noticed that none of the drivers were wearing seatbelts.

As I understand it, only stage operations are exempt
(though perhaps it could be said that dropping pupils at different locations is stage work?).
Maybe it was private hire as Taxi drivers are exempt - but is there a stipulation on what size the 'taxi' must be?

Well in sweden it is a bus if it has seats for more than 8 passengers. But it can still be a taxi service, but the driver must have D on his license.