School Transport

There are many reasons a family may need help with school travel costs. Distance or location may be an issue; a child may have special educational or physical needs; or, if your child has been bullied, you may have chosen a different school further away. These and other reasons may be grounds for applying for help with school transport.

Children of compulsory school age qualify for free transport to their nearest suitable school if any of these apply:

• The school is more than 2 miles away and the child is under 8.
• The school is more than 3 miles away and the child is 8 or older.
• There is no safe walking route between home and school.
• The child cannot walk because of special educational needs, a disability or mobility issues, whatever the distance.
• Extra rights for low-income families

There are additional rights for families who are on low-incomes, who will be able to access transport support.

• Your child is aged 8 to 11: attending their nearest suitable school and it is at least 2 miles away.
• Your child is aged 11 to 16: attending a school 2 to 6 miles away, if it is one of their 3 nearest suitable schools.
• Your child is aged 11 to 16: attending a school 2 to 15 miles away, if it was chosen because of religion or belief.
• Romani (Gypsy), Roma and Irish, Scottish and Welsh Traveller families

Romani (Gypsy), Roma and Irish, Scottish and Welsh Traveller children may face unique challenges in accessing education, including distance from sites, frequent moves, or a school place that is not the nearest. You may be entitled to support on a case-by-case basis. If your child is 16 or over and still in education, ask your council about its post-16 transport policy. We encourage families to seek advice if they are unsure about eligibility or the application process.

1. Find your council’s school transport policy by searching “school transport” plus your council’s name, or start at www.gov.uk/free-school-transport
2. Gather evidence: proof of address and benefits, details of your child’s needs, or evidence that there is no safe walking route.
3. Apply before the school year starts – councils have deadlines. Keep copies of everything you send.
4. If you are refused you can appeal the decision. Every council must have a review and appeals process. Contact The Traveller Movement if you need support to challenge a decision.