Transport

SEN (Special Educational Needs) transport refers to specialised transportation services designed to help children with disabilities or special educational needs get to and from school safely and comfortably. Local authorities are responsible for providing SEN transport for eligible children, typically those with mobility issues or other challenges that prevent them from walking to school, even if they fall within the standard distance requirements.

This guidance outlines when local councils must provide transport and when they may do so at their discretion.

When is free school transport provided?

A child must be provided with free transport if they meet any of these conditions:

1. Distance eligibility

1. Under eight years old and lives more than two miles from their nearest suitable school.
2. Aged eight–16 and lives more than three miles from their nearest suitable school.
3. Distance is measured using the shortest walking route, considering safety.

2. Special educational needs, disabilities, or mobility problems

·If a child cannot reasonably be expected to walk to school due to their SEN, disability, or mobility issues, they are entitled to transport regardless of distance.

3. Unsafe walking route

Even if the school is within walking distance, transport must be provided if no safe walking route exists (e.g., due to no footpath, high-speed roads, dangerous crossings).

4. Low-income families

For children from low-income families (eligible for free school meals or on maximum Working Tax Credit), the following applies:

• Ages 11–16: Free transport to one of the three nearest schools between two to six miles from home.
• Ages eight–11: Free transport if the nearest suitable school is more than two miles away.

What counts as the “nearest suitable school”?

A school that is:

• Suitable for the child’s age and ability.
• Has a place available.
• Not necessarily the catchment school, but not a faith school if the family objects based on religion or philosophy (or vice versa).

Discretionary transport

Local authorities may offer transport beyond the legal minimum in cases such as:

• Faith-based school preferences.
• Post-16 education.
• Temporary housing or hardship.
• Exceptional family circumstances.

Check your local council’s transport policy for details on discretionary offers.

How to challenge a decision

If your child is refused school transport:

1. Ask for a written explanation.
2. Submit a formal appeal to the council (usually within 20 working days).
3. Use the two-stage review process set by the Department for Education:
   • Stage 1: Review by a senior officer.
   • Stage 2: Independent appeal panel.