Parents and carers have the legal responsibility to make sure their child attends school regularly and to make arrangements for their journey to and from school.
There are four main eligibility categories for home to School travel assistance:
- Children who live beyond the statutory walking distance from their nearest suitable school.
- Children who cannot walk safely because the route is assessed as unsafe.
- Children entitled under the "Extended Rights" criteria (low-income families).
- Children with special educational needs (SEND), disabilities, or mobility difficulties that prevent them from walking to school.
5-25 year olds
Information on how exceptional circumstances, SEND needs, disability and mobility difficulties are considered as part of travel assessments.
- Home to School (5-16) Travel Assistance Policy 2026-27.
- Home to School (post 16 and post 19) Travel Assistance Policy 2026-27.
5-16 year olds
Statutory eligibility criteria for children of compulsory school age includes:
- statutory walking distances
- unsafe walking routes
- low income eligibility
- SEND related travel needs
- exceptional circumstances
Home to School (5-16) Travel Assistance Policy 2026-27.
Post-16 year olds
Information on travel assistance available for young people aged 16 to 19.
- Home to School (post-16 and post-19) Travel Assistance Policy 2026-27.
- Student reduced fare card form.
Post-19 year olds
Information on travel assistance available for learners aged 19 to 25 with an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP).