Local Authorities have a duty to publish their post-16 travel policy by 31 May annually for the school year commencing the following September.
Between Monday 4 November 2024 and Monday 16 December 2024, we are seeking your views about our proposed Post-16 Travel Policy for the 2025/2026 school year.
We are proposing the following:
- No increase to the annual post-16 travel charge for a mainstream seat or for a student with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) for the 2025/2026 school year.
- Continue to apply a 50% reduction to the relevant charge for post-16 travel for a student whose family has low income and is in receipt of qualifying benefits for Free School Meals (FSM).
- The cost of a spare seat should remain in line with the charge for post-16 travel, including the discount for families with low income.
- The proposed updated text changes (in blue) to enhance clarification for users.
The proposals mean the charge for post-16 travel for the 2025/2026 school year will be:
- £1,050 for a mainstream student (reduced to £525 for families in receipt of FSM)
- £780 for student who has SEND (reduced to £390 for families in receipt of FSM).
For those on low income, an application can be made via the student’s post-16 provision for support through the 16-19 Bursary Fund.
The policy is currently in draft as it is only a proposal and will be discussed at Cabinet meeting to be held in February 2025.
