Home to School Transport

Local education authorities have a legal duty to make appropriate home to school or college travel arrangements for children and young people who meet set criteria. They have policies to determine what travel modes or support are offered, who is entitled to transport and for which journeys, and whether and how much payment is required. We often find that issues such as post-16 and post-19 education, faith-based choice, nearest suitable school, walking distance measurement, arrangements for parental choice and walking route safety cause confusion and dissatisfaction and lead to excessive staff hours dealing with queries and complaints.

Some authorities choose to provide more than the legal minimum and to pay for those additional services. Others have been doing so but need to consider options for future savings. A number have been challenged by parents and schools and found wanting for not complying with the legal requirements. Confusing and imprecise policies, combined with poor communication, can cause stress for parents and staff alike and often have financial consequences.

We work closely with authorities in all parts of the UK on all aspects of school and college travel (mainstream and SEND/ASL/ASN) and assist them to develop policies and practices that meet their legal duties, make savings through network design and improved procurement and improve children’s safety and independence.

If you would like to discuss this with us please contact our office on 01772 204988 or send us an email.