Help with school transport and costs

Brighter Futures for Children is seeking families views on proposed changes to its school transport policy. Please visit the page linked via the button below for full details. The consultation runs from 19 February to 11.59pm 29 March 2024.

School Transport Policy Consultation

Who can apply?

You can apply for free school transport if your nearest suitable school for your child/ren is not within walking distance of your home. Walking distance is:

  • two miles for children under eight
  • three miles for children between eight and 16 years old

You might also be able to apply if your child has a disability or an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP).

If you disagree with the decision, you can appeal online. Your appeal will be heard by an Independent Panel consisting of the Lead Member for Education, the Director of Education and a BFfC education member of staff, all of whom will not have been involved in the original decision. This policy is reviewed annually to take account of government guidance and best practice.

Details of the appeal process are available here:

BFfC School Transport Appeals – Parents’ Guide

BFfC School Transport Policy

If a transport pass is lost, damaged or no longer scans you can apply for a replacement pass here.

Low income

You should complete a Low Income Supplementary Form if your child attends a secondary school which is one of the three nearest to your home address and the distance is over two miles but less than six miles (or 15 miles for a denominational school). If the application is for transport to a denominational school, an additional Denominational Certificate should be requested. For primary age pupils, the school needs to be the nearest school to qualify on the basis of Low Income.

Post-16 students

There is no legal entitlement for free transport to school after Year 11. However, if your child attends a full-time course at Reading College, has an Education, Health and Care Plan and their end of Year 11 review indicates your child needs help to travel, you will get help.

The BFfC Post-16 Education Transport Statement gives further details about how to get help.

Higher education

Student Finance now deals with higher education funding. If your child is between 16 and 19 years old and in full- or part-time education or training, check the Gov.uk website to see if they are eligible for help.

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