Ten students have been rushed to hospital after a packed school bus crashed in Sydney‘s west.

Emergency services were called to Erskine Park Road in Erskine Park shortly before 1pm on Thursday following reports a bus had veered off the road, before slamming into a pole and then a tree.

A major rescue operation worked to extricate the bus driver, who was trapped in the wreckage for a short time.

The Daily Mail understands that the driver, aged in his 50s, may have suffered a medical episode prior to the crash.

He was treated by paramedics and rushed to Westmead Hospital in a critical condition, an Ambulance NSW spokeswoman confirmed.

A teacher and 41 students from Years 11 and 12 at Erskine Park High School were also on board the bus, returning from an excursion.

At least 10 ambulances were deployed to the scene.

Ten students – aged between 16 and 18 – were taken to several hospitals for further treatment for minor injuries. One suffered suspected fractures.

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Ten students and a bus driver have been rushed to hospital after a crash in Sydney’s west

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Most of the 41 Erskine Park High School students on board were shaken but uninjured

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Ten students aged between 16 and 18 were taken to various hospitals

The teacher and remaining 31 students were shaken but not physically injured.

They have either been taken home or returned to school.

Many parents raced to the scene, where they were seen comforting the distressed teenagers.

The bus has been towed away although emergency responders, along with Department of Education officials, remain at the scene.

‘Our thanks to the emergency services staff who attended the accident and helped remove students and staff from the bus,’ a department spokesperson said.

Inquiries into the crash continue.

Erskine Park High School has confirmed that students were involved in the accident.

‘All students are currently okay and are being assessed by NSW Ambulance personnel as a precaution,’ an online post read.

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Ten students were taken to hospital with various minor injuries. One has a suspected fracture

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Many parents raced to the crash scene to collect their children

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Erskine Park Road was closed in both directions for almost two hours

‘Counselling support will also be available at school tomorrow for any students who may require it.’

Erskine Park Road was closed in both directions for almost two hours.

Motorists were advised to avoid the area and use alternative routes.

‘One lane remains closed northbound while crews replace a pole,’ the latest Live Traffic NSW update states.

‘Allow some extra travel time and exercise caution.’