Home to School Travel Policy for Compulsory School-Aged Children (Reception to Year 11)

Introduction

1.1

This document describes the policy for home to school travel assistance and the criteria applied to determine eligibility.

1.2

The Policy has been developed in accordance with the legislative framework set out in sections 508A, 508B, 508C, 508D and 509AD and Schedule 35B of the Education Act 1996 (as amended by Part 6 of the Education and Inspections Act 2006), the current Government Home-to-school travel guidance. and, where appropriate, the Equality Act.

1.3

Parents have a legal duty to make necessary arrangements to ensure that their statutory aged children attend school regularly. The council is only required to provide free school travel assistance to children resident within the administrative area of Oxfordshire County Council. if the school transport eligibility criteria are met.

1.4

Home to School travel assistance aims to:

• support those most in need
• promote principles of independence
• provide the most cost-effective travel assistance
• promote and encourage the use of sustainable travel

1.5

As a Council, we expect the service delivered to be of a high standard. All children and young people who travel under this Policy can expect that those standards will be monitored and maintained. In this policy we have referred to children of statutory school age (5 -16 years) as “pupils”, and those over statutory school age as “students”.

1.6

The Education Act 1996 provides the following duties and powers on local authorities:

• duty to promote sustainable modes of travel to meet school travel needs - s.508A
• duty to make necessary travel arrangements free of charge to secure suitable home to school travel arrangements for eligible children. Eligibility includes age, distance to school, special educational needs, a disability (SEND) or mobility problems and safe walking routes - S.508B
• power to make necessary school travel arrangements for other children on payment of a charge as appropriate - s.508C
• power to provide travel assistance or travel expenses for children attending early years education, subject to eligibility criteria - s.509A
• duty to prepare a Post-16 transport policy statement setting out transport provision and financial assistance (where applicable) to facilitate attendance of sixth form students at educational institutions - s.509AA and s.509AB

1.7

Those who are not resident in Oxfordshire are advised to contact their own home local authority for details of any policy that their local authority may have regarding home to school/college transport. Home to School Transport Eligibility

Under statutory school age (0 to 4 years) eligibility for travel assistance

2.1

Free and subsidised transport is not automatically provided to children of pre- school age who attend an Early Years settings or school. Travel arrangements for a child attending a nursery provision remains the responsibility of a child’s parent.

2.2

In exceptional circumstances the Council will consider providing travel assistance for any child who will turn 5 within the term that the application is made, subject to them meeting the transport eligibility criteria and the Council completing a travel needs assessment. Each case is considered individually therefore parents should not assume automatic entitlement.

2.3

A child with an EHCP attending a mainstream or specialist nursery can request to be considered for travel assistance, as long as the placement is the nearest suitable setting. If travel assistance is offered, this is likely to be in the form of a Direct Travel Payment , subject to a consideration of a family’s ability to make suitable transport arrangements for their child’s journey to nursery.

2.4

If it is determined by the School Transport Eligibility Team that once the child is 5 they will meet the eligibility criteria for home to school transport, A child with an EHCP attending a reception class before they turn 5 may be transported during the academic year that they are due to turn 5, providing there is existing transport running from the child’s home area to the educational setting. This is subject to the Council completing a travel needs assessment.

2.5

If it is determined by the School Transport Eligibility Team that a child with an EHCP attending a reception class would be eligible to receive Council funded home to school travel assistance once they turn 5, then we would consider providing travel assistance if the child needs it before the age of 5. This would b e the case even if there was no existing transport provision running from the child’s home area to the educational setting. These cases can be brought to the Transport Exceptions Panel for consideration.

2.6

If travel assistance is offered, this is likely to be in the form of a Direct Travel Payment subject to a consideration of a family’s ability to make suitable transport arrangements for their child’s journey to school. Statutory school age (5 to 16 years - Mainstream and SEND)

Statutory school age (5 to 16 years, mainstream and SEND)

2.7

Statutory school age begins with the start of term following a child's 5th birthday and ends on the last Friday in June in the academic year in which they turn 16. Children of statutory school age need to attend a school or educational setting on a full-time basis; this is defined as 190 days (or 380 sessions) each academic year.

2.8

There are 4 categories of statutory school age students living in Oxfordshireshire and attending their nearest suitable school who are eligible for Council funded travel assistance:

• children who live beyond the statutory walking distance
• children whose walking route to school is unsafe
• children with Special Educational Needs (SEN), a disability or a mobility difficulty
• children from low -income families (where extended rights apply – see section 2.25)

2.9

The nearest suitable school is defined as ‘the nearest qualifying school with places available that provides education appropriate to the child's age, ability, aptitude, gender and any special educational needs they may have’ that is closest to the pupils home. A ‘qualifying’ school is:

• a maintained school or nursery, or a special school approved under s.342 of the Education Act 1996
• a pupil referral unit or
• an academy

2.10

The distance to the nearest suitable school is measured along the shortest route available to the public. This may not necessarily be an available walking route or a driving route.

2.11

Where a child has an EHCP, the school named in the EHCP will normally be considered to be their nearest suitable school.

2.12

The nearest suitable school used for the tra vel eligibility assessment may not be the same as the catchment school or nearest school for admissions purposes.

2.13

Where a village has at least 20% of its addresses located nearest to the catchment/designated area school and the rest are nearest to another school, free travel assistance will be provided to the catchment school for all addresses if the distance is beyond the “statutory walking distance” or there is no safe walking route. This is referred to as ‘ split village’ entitlement. This additional entitlement applies to all children of the relevant age for the schools concerned and applies whether a child does or does not have an EHCP. A list of the villages affected can be found under ‘Villages’ on the following webpage www.oxfordshire.gov.uk/schooltransport .

2.14

When school applications are processed, where a preference is expressed for and a place is offered at the nearest suitable school, and this school is out of county, then this is considered in the home to school travel eligibility assessment.

2.15

When determining the nearest suitable school for travel purposes, the assessment does not take into account whether a child is qualified for grammar school. Therefore, the nearest suitable school may be an upper/all-ability school. In these instances, if a child chooses to attend a grammar school further away, Council funded transport will not be provided to that school.

2.16

Parents/carers should always express a preference for their nearest suitable school on their application. The School Transport Eligibility Team will determine places available and therefore families do not need to be concerned about whether their child is likely to secure a place at the nearest suitable school.

2.17

'Places available' does not apply to admissions to Special Schools or Additionally Resourced Provision.

2.18

Parents are not required to name the nearest suitable school as their first preference when they make their school application, but it must be listed as their first preference if they want to be considered for travel assistance If a place cannot be offered a place at the nearest suitable school, then tra vel support could be provided to the next nearest school.

2.19

If parents do not express their nearest suitable school as one of their preferences, and instead choose a place at a school which is not the nearest suitable school, the pupil will not be eligible for Council funded travel assistance unless the extended rights apply (see section 2.25 – 2.30).

Statutory walking distances

2.20

The statutory walking distances are used to determine whether a pupil is eligible for Council funded travel assistance. The statutory walking distances are as follows:

• up to 2 miles (if below the age of 8)
• up to 3 miles (if aged between 8 and 16)

2.21

To determine if a child lives over the statutory walking distance, this is measured along the shortest route along which a child, accompanied by a responsible adult, may walk with reasonable safety. The route may include footpaths, bridleways, and other pathways, as well as recognised roads. All such routes need to be open to the public. Even where the distance is calculated to have been longer than the statutory walking distance it will still be measured using this method.

2.22

If the distance between home and the nearest suitable school is more than these limits, the pupil is eligible for Council funded travel assistance. Pupils who live beyond the statutory walking distance may be required to use public transport and in these cases the Council will provide a bus or train travel pass in order for them to use the relevant public transport service.

2.23

Where a pupil lives within the statutory walking distance of their nearest suitable school and is not eligible for Council funded travel assistance on any of the other grounds set out in this policy, the parent/carer is responsible for making suitable arrangements for their child’s travel to school.

2.24

If issues are raised over the possible safety of a walking route the School Transport Eligibility Team will arrange for an initial assessment and, if necessary, a full assessment by a member of the Road Safety Team.

2.25

For pupils who fall within the 'Extended Rights' eligibility criteria the 6 miles and 15 miles upper limits are not walking routes . These routes are those which are passable using a suitable motorised vehicle. In short, the two upper limits will be measured along road routes.

Extended rights for pupils from low-income families

2.26

Extended rights are designed to support low -income families to exercise school choice.

2.27

Low-income is defined by reference to eligibility for benefits -based free school meals (FSM). There are two categories of benefits-based free school meals:

• targeted FSM – for pupils who are in households in receipt of Universal Credit with annual household earnings of no more than £7,400
• expanded FSM – for pupils who do not qualify for Targeted FSM, but who are in households receiving Universal Credit.

2.28

Extended rights travel applies to children eligible for Targeted FSM if they meet one of the criteria below:

• those pupils aged 8 to 10, who live more than 2 miles from their nearest suitable school.
• those secondary school aged pupils who attend one of the three nearest schools to their home, which the pupil is qualified to attend (for example a mainstream pupil is not qualified to attend a special school even if it is one of the three nearest schools and therefore it would be discounted), where the distance is between 2 and 6 miles (by road).
• those s econdary school age pupils who attend a school between 2 miles and 15 miles away from home , where their parent or carer has expressed a wish for them to be educated at that particular school based on their religion or belief and, having regard to that wish, there is no nearer suitable school. This applies to parent s or carers with a particular religious or philosophical belief, including those with a lack of religion or lack of belief.

Pupils whose route to school is unsafe

2.29

A pupil is eligible for Council funded travel assistance if the route to school is considered unavailable, and

• they attend their nearest suitable school, and
• it is within the statutory walking distance of their home, and
• the nature of the route means they could not be expected to walk there in reasonable safety, even if accompanied by their parent/carer, and
• there is no alternative route within the statutory walking distance that they would be able to walk in reasonable safety, even if accompanied by their parent/carer.

2.30

All walking routes are assessed by the Council in accordance with the Road Safety GB and RoSPA (Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents) guidelines. The Council will assess the route at the times the pupil would be using it and will consider:

• the age of the pupil
• whether risks might be less if the pupil were accompanied by their parent/carer
• the width of the road and the existence of pavements
• the volume and speed of traffic
• the conditions at different times of the year

2.31

Where a route previously assessed as unsafe is reassessed and determined to be safe (for example by reviewing the route, through route improvements, upgrades or maintenance, the building of new footpaths or installing pedestrian crossings, etc.) the transp ort eligibility for all pupils who are using the previously assessed unsafe walking route will be reviewed. Pupils who are no longer eligible once the route is reassessed as safe will be given a minimum six weeks notice before Council funded travel assistance is withdrawn. It will then be the parent/carer's responsibility to make suitable travel arrangements for their child.

2.32

It is clear from relevant case law that assessments must look at the relationship between pedestrians and traffic only and that personal safety/security issues of children travelling alone should not be considered. Therefore, routes are assessed in terms of road safety rather than personal safety/security in any other sense.

2.33

The assessment carried out is a road safety assessment. This assessment does not include the weight of the bags carried by an individual, the local weather conditions, temporary surface conditions such as mud or puddles, the presence of uncut hedges, difficult terrain and the arduousness of the route or whether the accompanying responsible adult will also have a younger child or pram with them.

2.34

If a footway is over ½ a metre in width the footway is classed as an available route.

2.35

If a footway is less than ½ a metre in width then traffic volumes and speeds are included in the assessment to determine whether the footway is an available route.

2.36

Even if there is not a footway, the walking route will still be assessed as available if it is safe to walk, accompanied, as necessary, by a responsible adult. The assessment will take account of traffic flows and whether drivers have enough time to slow down or pedestrians have time to step -off the road or verge. It is the responsibility of a parent to ensure that a child is accompanied as necessary on the walking journey to school.

2.37

No walking route can be absolutely safe. The term used in the Road Safety GB guidance to describe the accepted standard is “reasonable safety”.

2.38

Assessments will usually take place in the morning during the times children will be travelling to school and assessments may also be undertaken when returning home in the afternoon. Visits will be timed, where possible, so that crossing assessments of main roads take place at the times when the number of children travelling to school is highest.

Transport to schools that are not the nearest

2.39

If a place cannot be offered at the nearest suitable school when this has been expressed as the preference school , then travel assistance to the next nearest suitable school will be offered. Where the Council allocates a school place which is not a preference, we will only consider providing Council funded travel assistance if the nearest suitable school was expressed the 1st preference.

Split site schools

2.40

In the case of split site schools, as with all other schools, when assessing whether a child should receive free travel because of the walking distance to that school, the distance will be measured to the site they initially attend. This decision will not be reviewed because a child subsequently moves to a different site of the same school.

2.41

The following Oxfordshire secondary schools currently have split sites:

• the Cherwell School
• king Alfred’s Academy
• lord Williams’ School
• heyford Park School

Home to school transport provision in specific circumstances

2.42

There may be specific circumstances where Council funded travel assistance could be provided. These are provided at the Council’s discretion.

2.43

Parents/carers of pupils who do not meet the eligibility criteria above, may have reasons why they think their child should be provided with travel assistance which they want the Council to consider. The Council has a 2 stage appeal process for parents/carers to challenge decisions about transport eligibility.

2.44

Each appeal must be made in writing. The appeal will be considered, and transport may be provided at the discretion of the Council.

• discretionary assistance will be:
• dealt with on a case-by-case basis
• granted for a set period of time
• is subject to review more frequently than other circumstances
• may cover the whole cost of transport provision or be a contribution to the cost of the travel assistance

Criteria for home to school transport for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) or mobility issues

2.45

Pupils who have SEND or mobility issues may require assistance with getting to school or to another educational setting. This may be over and above the provision made for other pupils. Pupils with SEND who attend their nearest suitable school/setting and s atisfy the distance, unsafe walking route or low -income assessment criteria set out above are eligible for Council funded travel assistance.

2.46

Having an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) does not automatically mean that a child will be eligible for travel assistance.

2.47

A pupil with an EHCP will not usually be provided with Council funded travel assistance unless they meet the statutory eligibility criteria, or they live within the statutory walking distance limits and the pupil has a special educational need, disability or mobility issue which prevents them from walking to school in reasonable safety, even if accompanied.

2.48

The Council considers the individual needs of pupils, including professional advice, and will consult with parents/carers and teachers about travel needs and assistance. Where appropriate the pupil will also be consulted.

2.49

The Council will take the following into account when determining eligibility for transport assistance for pupils with SEND:

• distance to nearest suitable school
• medical needs
• behaviour that challenges, impacting on reasonable safety
• mobility issues
• whether the pupil is able to walk to school in reasonable safety if accompanied by their parent/carer
• vulnerability (including age, young parents and those at risk of disengaging from employment, education or training) This list is for guidance only, and satisfying one or more of these factors does not automatically support entitlement to Council funded travel assistance.

2.50

When determining the most appropriate type of travel assistance for pupils with SEND, the Council will consider the following:

• age of the pupil
• nature and severity of the pupil's SEND
• availability of public transport
• length and nature of the journey
• most cost-effective mode of transport
• safety of handover arrangements
• travel training readiness
• pupil's ability to use public transport independently

2.51

Parents of pupils with EHCPs may, in certain circumstances, be given the option of a personal budget to meet some or all of the provision detailed in the Plan and special transport will be an element of the personal budget.

2.52

A parent will be formally notified, in writing, of the travel arrangements that the Council believes to be appropriate. At that point the parent may appeal against the mode of transport decided upon through the normal transport appeal process set out in this document. The first stage of this process is to request a review through the School Transport Appeals process . Prior to any appeal the Council will only make available the transport decided upon in th e assessment. The result of any transport appeal is binding on the Council.

Elective home education

2.53

Where parents/carers decide to provide Home Education for their children instead of sending them to a school, this is called elective home education (EHE). In the case of EHE, no assistance will be available from the Council in connection with any transport need arising.

Education other than at school (EOTAS)

2.54

Education other than at school (EOTAS) must be agreed by the Council. Where the Council arranges for a pupil/student to have education other than at a school, the Council may consider transport subject to the normal eligibility criteria as detailed in section Criteria for home to school transport for pupils with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) or mobility issues of this Home to School Transport Policy. Circumstances will be reviewed and agreed on a case - by-case basis.

Alternative education provision

2.55

Where a pupil’s placement has broken down and the pupil continues to be maintained on the school roll (of the pupil’s original school) pending next placement but attends an Alternative Education Provision to ensure continued access to education (similar to S61/S19) then assistance with travel may be agreed to the nearest suitable provision.

2.56

Both the school and the council must agree and confirm that the original placement has broken down, and this is confirmed by both the school and the council. Any support with travel in these circumstances will be reviewed and agreed on a case- by-case basis in consideration of the established eligibility criteria for Home to School Transport assessments. Looked After Children (under the care of the Council - all ages)

Looked after children (under the care of the Council, all ages)

2.57

The Council is committed to supporting those most in need, ensuring that travel assistance is available to those who require it. It is recognised that Looked After Children face specific challenges and barriers to achieving their full potential, and as corporate parents we are committed to reducing those barriers.

2.58

For Looked after Children under our care, transport will be provided as follows:

• if a Looked After Child is educated at a school that is not the nearest suitable school for less than one term, transport will be provided by the Council for this period
• if a Looked After child is educated at school that is not the nearest suitable school for more than one term, transport will be provided by the Council for one term. During this term it is expected that an application will be made to the nearest suitable school, unless there are exceptional circumstances as to why the pupil should not move to this school. The view of the Head Teacher of the Virtual School will be taken into account when senior officers consider any exceptional circumstances Non-statutory school age (16 to 25 years - Mainstream and SEND)

3.1

Under national legislation, students are required to be in education, employment or training until their 18th birthday. This could involve staying in full-time education in school/college, starting an apprenticeship or traineeship, or spending 20 hours or more a week working or volunteering while in part -time education or training. There has not, however, been any change to statutory school age which ends at the end of the academic year in which the student turns 16.

3.2

Under the current law, there is no automatic entitlement to Council funded transport from home to school or to another educational setting once a student is 16 and over. However, the Council is required to facilitate the attendance of all those of sixth form age i.e. those students over compulsory school age who started their programme of learning before their 19th birthday. This may involve travel assistance, but the Council does not need to provide this assistance free of charge. Responsibility for attendance lies with the student and their parents/carers.

3.3

Where a student with SEND starts a new course at aged 19 or older, any transport assistance which is necessary to facilitate attendance must be free of charge i.e. fully Council funded, as they are Adult Learners. More information is provided in our Post-16 Transport Policy Statement.

Post-16 transport policy statement

3.4

The Council has a duty to prepare and publish an annual Transport Policy Statement. This statement specifies the arrangements for transport that the Council considers it necessary to make in order to facilitate the attendance of sixth form students receiving education or training.

3.5

The Post-16 Transport Policy Statement includes information on:

• fares, Passes and Travel Cards
• travel options for mainstream students including the
• travel assistance for students with SEND
• financial hardship
• bursaries
• independent Travel Training

3.6

This Post-16 Transport Policy Statement takes account of the Special Educational Needs and Disability Code of Practice 0 to 25 years. Support for students with SEND 19-25 years

Support for students with SEND aged 19 to 25

3.7

The Council outlines the support available to students aged 19 to 25 with SEND in the Post-16 Transport Policy Statement described above. Application and

Application process

4.1

For enquiries about school transport eligibility for pupils/students information is available on the Council’s website at Free and paid travel to school.

4.2

School tra vel eligibility is assessed and confirmed by the School Transport Eligibility Team . Enquiries about school transport eligibility can be made using the School Transport Eligibility Team ‘Contact us’ form Contact home to school transport.

Review process

4.3

Provision of travel assistance at any one time does not guarantee that this will be an ongoing arrangement, and the requirement will be reviewed by the Council on a regular basis.

4.4

All pupils/students who receive travel assistance will be subject to review:

• at the end of Year 3 in which the pupil attains the age of 8 years;
• at the end of Year 6;
• following the successful completion of Independent Travel Training;
• following a change in circumstances.

4.5

If during the course of any school year the Council determines that the provision of home to school transport does not need be provided any longer, it will stop at the end of the term in which the decision is made. How to challenge a decision

How to challenge a decision

Concerns about transport arrangements

4.6

Transport arrangements are based on the Council’s assessment of the young person’s individual transport needs and relate to how their transport is delivered. Examples include the type of vehicle, number of passengers, use of a passenger assistant.

4.7

If a parent/carer’s have a concern about their child’s transport arrangements, they should contact Supported Transport in the first instance. If their concern is not resolved, then they should refer to the How to make a Home to School Transport complaint section of this policy.

Appeals about transport eligibility

4.8

Transport eligibility relates to whether the child or young person:

• has a legal right to have transport provided, or,
• meets Oxfordshire Council’s criteria for exceptional reasons to have transport provided

4.9

The Council has a 2 stage appeal process for young people and parents/carers to challenge a decision about transport eligibility. Stage 1 – Review by a senior officer

Stage 1: review by a senior officer

4.10

Parents/carers have 20 working days to request a review of our decision about home to school transport eligibility or provision. Parents/carers should submit a request at Appeal for home to school transport, detailing why the decision should be reviewed, giving details of any personal/family circumstances and include all supporting evidence to be considered, for example, evidence from a medical professional. In most cases the parent/carer will be asked to com plete a form for further information. The parent/carer will receive an acknowledgement when we have received their written request for a review.

4.11

The decision will be reviewed by a senior officer.

4.12

Within 20 working days of receipt of their written request including all supporting evidence, parents/carers will be advised in writing of the appeal decision. Stage 2 - Review by an Independent Appeal Panel

Stage 2: review by an independent appeal panel

4.13

Parents/carers have 20 working days from receipt of our Stage 1 appeal decision notification letter to write to ask for it to be reconsidered at Stage 2, which is a review by an Independent Appeal Panel. Details of where to send the Stage 2 request will be included on the Stage 1 appeal decision letter. Within 40 working days of receipt of the parents/carers Stage 2 request, an Independent Appeal Panel will consider written and verbal representations from both the parent/carer and officers involved in the c ase. The Independent Appeal Panel will give a detailed written notification of the outcome within 5 working days of the panel meeting.

4.14

The Independent Appeal Panel is made up of officers who have experience and knowledge of transport issues. These officers are independent of the original decision making process. Stage 3 - Complaint to Local Government and Social Care Ombudsman

Stage 3: complaint to the Local Government and Social Care Ombudsman

4.15

Parents/carers can complain to the Local Government and Social Care Ombudsman only if they consider that:

• there was a failure to comply with the procedural rules
• if there are any other irregularities in the way the appeal has been handled

4.27

For further information contact the School Transport Eligibility team.

Types of travel assistance

5.1

The travel assistance offered by the Council may take the form of:

• a public bus or train travel pass
• independent Travel Training
• a Direct Travel Payment
• a Council arranged coach/bus service
• a Council arranged minibus
• a Council arranged shared taxi
• a Council arranged solo taxi, based on a travel needs assessment undertaken by the Council
• passenger assistant support, based on a travel needs assessment undertaken by the Council
• other alternative assistance based on needs/circumstances (case by case)

5.2

In order to determine the most appropriate travel option for pupils/students and the most cost effective means of travel assistance, the Council will use a range of criteria.

5.3

In exceptional circumstances, considered on a case by case basis, a Direct Travel Payment may be offered to the parent/carer of mainstream (non-SEND) pupils who are eligible for Council funded travel assistance, as an alternative to Council organised transport. However, in these instances Council funded and organised travel assistance is always available if this is the preference. Direct Travel Payments and Mileage claims for pupils with SEND

Direct travel payments and mileage claims for pupils with SEND

Direct travel payments

5.4

The Families of pupils/students of all ages with SEND who are eligible for transport can apply for a Direct Travel Payment. This is awarded at the Council's discretion to support the pupil to travel from home to their school or educational setting.

5.5

A Direct Travel Payment is paid on the assumption that a pupil of statutory school age attends their school/educational setting 190 days a year (as determined by the government definition of a school year); or for students who are over 16 years old, that they attend a full -time programme of learning that is at least 540 guided learning (planned and funded) hours per year.

5.6

If a pupil or student receives a Direct Travel Payment part way through the school year, or attends school or learning on a part -time basis, the total payment is on a pro rata basis to account for the reduced amount of time that a parent/carer would be responsible for transport arrangements.

What is a direct travel payment?

5.7

A Direct Travel Payment allows families to have the freedom and flexibility to make their own travel arrangements rather than travelling on Council organised transport. A Direct Travel Payment is awarded at the discretion of the Council. It is a sum of money to support the pupil or student to travel from home to their school or educational setting. It is not a short-term alternative while a transport application is being processed.

5.8

A Direct Travel Payment could be used in many ways, including:

• to pay for fuel and/or running costs on a family vehicle that is used to transport a pupil or student to school/educational setting
• lease a vehicle to use if the family don’t have one
• paying for a shared taxi with other pupils or students
• paying for another person to take a sibling to school to free a parent/carer up to transport the pupil or student with SEND
• buying travel passes for other children in the family so that they can travel to and from school, allowing the parent/carer to transport the pupil or student with SEND
• paying for childcare for another child to allow a parent/carer to take the pupil or student with SEND to school/educational setting
• working with the school to join up transport options with other parents (for example car share), encouraging a sense of community
• a Direct Travel Payment allows families to have the freedom and flexibility to make their own travel arrangements rather than travelling on Council organised transport. A Direct Travel Payment is awarded at the discretion of the Council. It is a sum of money to support the pupil or student to travel from home to their school or educational setting. It is not a short-term alternative while a transport application is being processed.

5.9

Direct Travel Payments can be used for any non -Council provided transport service. This means for, example, a public transport bus pass, commercially provided closed school bus pass or rail pass. A Direct Travel Payment cannot be used for Council organised transport services, for example the Council’s Spare Seats scheme or to pay for Council arranged transport for an annual fee.

5.10

All eligible pupils or students for whom a Direct Travel Payment request is made will have their application assessed. We will take into consideration any cost to the Council of arranging the transport and will make a best value assessment based on the cost of council arranged transport as well as the specific needs of the pupil/student. Conditions of use for

Conditions of use for direct travel payments

5.11

If a parent/carer uses the Direct Travel Payment to employ someone (for example for childcare), then they will be responsible for complying with relevant rules regarding Tax and National Insurance, Employment Law, Insurance, Health and Safety or any other relevant rules or legislation in force at that t ime. In addition, parents/carers should make relevant and appropriate checks on whether employed staff have current Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) certificates; and parents/carers should arrange or pay for those checks if directly employing an individual who doesn’t have one.

5.12

Similarly, if a parent/carer uses the Direct Travel Payment to enter into contracts with organisations for example after school/extra -curricular clubs, or individuals, the parent/carer would be responsible for complying with the terms and conditions of those contracts. This may include payment arrangements or noti ce of cancellation.

5.13

All children with an Education, Health and Care Plan in the same family would be considered when agreeing the amount awarded via a Direct Travel Payment . There may be some circumstances where it is appropriate for a family to have one child travelling on Post -16 SEND Council arranged transport (and paying an annual fee), while the other child has a Direct Travel Payment . Where this is an appropriate arrangement, this would be discussed with the family. Where a pupil or student attends more than one educational setting, their eligibility for a Direct Travel Payment to each setting will be assessed separately.

5.14

Regular and proportionate checks will be carried out to ensure that Direct Travel Payments are used appropriately, in accordance with the Council’s Direct Travel Payment agreement with the parent/carer.

5.15

A Direct Travel Payment may be withdrawn in some circumstances or a reduction in the payment amounts made, including if:

• a pupil/student's attendance falls below 90% (this aligns with the government definition of “Persistent Absence” in school -age children which is an absence rate of 90% and below) - it would be recognised that attendance for some pupils may be affected by their medical needs, and the details and evidence of this will be taken into co nsideration in determining whether to withdraw, reduce or reclaim a Direct Travel Payment
• a pupil/student regularly arrives late at their educational setting in the mornings or in an unfit state to learn
• a Direct Travel Payment is not being used appropriately
• it is not cost -effective for the Council to continue providing the Direct Travel Payment
• it has been assessed that the pupil/student is no longer eligible for travel assistance
• there is a change to national legislation and/or the Council’s policies Agreeing the amount of

Agreeing the amount of direct travel payments

5.16

To determine the appropriate Direct Travel Payments amount, the following factors, alongside discussion with the family, will be considered:

• the special educational needs and disabilities of the pupil/student
• the travel distance as measured by the Council
• how the pupil/student might travel to their educational setting
• the time the journey takes
• whether the pupil/student is able to travel alone or if they need to be accompanied
• the age of the pupil/student
• whether any specialist equipment might be required

5.17

The standard amount that would be awarded with a Direct Travel Payment (DTP) based on the straight-line distance (using the Council’s transport software system) between the pupils home and their main school and calculated based on the mileage band. It is expected the value of the DTP will support the cost of two return journeys per day of attendance at their educational setting (i.e. all four legs of the journeys). Any variation to the standard amount will be considered as part of the pupil/student’s travel assessment. As a Direct Travel Payment can be used in many ways there is no expectation that the parent/carer will use the same route as measured by the Council.

5.18

Where a pupil receives a DTP partway through the academic year, the total payment will be offered on a pro rata basis to account for the reduced timescale that the parent/carer will be responsible for transport arrangements.

5.19

Where a pupil is accessing education on a part-time basis, or they are making use of boarding facilities, their DTP payments will be offered on a pro rata basis to account for the reduction in journey frequency.

5.20

There might be circumstances where a Direct Travel Payment is not appropriate. This could include where the Council can arrange transport at a lower cost and would take into account the specific needs of the pupil/student. This will be assessed as part of the application process. The Council will make the final decision based on all the available information.

5.21

More detailed information on mileage banding and Direct Travel Payment values can be found on our Direct Travel Payment webpage. Banding and values are reviewed annually and updated accordingly to ensure ongoing sustainability and value for money. Mileage allowance for pupils/students with SEND

Mileage allowance for pupils and students with SEND

5.22

Direct Travel Payments have replaced mileage allowance. However, there may be exceptional circumstances where a mileage allowance could be offered. These are assessed and offered to parents/carers on a case-by-case basis.

Sustainable modes of travel

5.23

The Council has a Sustainable Modes of Travel Strategy.

5.24

School Travel Plans identify, and address congestion, safety, health and environmental issues associated with car use on the school journey.

5.25

Schools may organise campaigns and projects, run initiatives and events and promote activities to reduce single occupancy car use for the journey.

Spare seats scheme

5.26

The Council contracts with companies to provide school bus transport for pupils who are eligible for Council funded transport. Spare seats on these vehicles may be sold where there are seats remaining after the allocation of seats to eligible pupils have been made. More information about the Council’s Spare Seat Scheme can be found on our website.

5.27

Spare seats on Council provided transport are extremely limited. All purchased seats are subject to the seat being withdrawn with 5 working days’ notice if it is required for a pupil who is eligible.

5.28

Where free travel is provided or a seat is purchased through the Spare Seat Scheme, travel is provided for attendance at the beginning and end of the school day only and not for extracurricular activities. This applies both to children who have an Education, Health and Care Plan and those who do not have such a plan.

5.29

On routes where spare seats are available and where applications are received by the advertised deadline, spare seats will be prioritised and allocated in the following order

• renewal applications
• looked After Children or former Looked After Children who have been adopted
• pupils/students with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) who have an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP)
• children of Armed Forces personnel - in line with our duty as part of the Oxfordshire Armed Forces Covenant
• siblings of pupils/students allocated a place in priority 1 and siblings of eligible pupils travelling on the same route.
• all others - on a first come first served basis from date of application

5.30

Detailed terms and conditions on the Spare Seats Scheme are published on our website.

5.31

The travel pass provided for this transport is the responsibility of the pupil/student. If lost or damaged, contact us online to request a replacement quoting a valid student reference number, name, address and date of birth. An administration charge will apply. Passenger Assistants for pupils/students with SEND

Passenger assistants for pupils and students with SEND

5.32

Passenger assistants are responsible for the supervision of pupils/students to and from school. They will oversee the pupil’s/student's conduct and safety in such a way that the driver is able to drive the vehicle safely. The role of the passenger assistant is to help the driver to ensure the pupil/student can access their transport provision in a safe and appropriate way.

5.33

The needs of each individual pupil/student will be assessed to determine whether they will require supervision by a passenger assistant. There is no minimum and maximum age that determines whether a passenger assistant is required.

5.34

Passenger assistants receive training to understand the needs of pupils/students placed in their care. All Council passenger assistants are subject to an Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check.

5.35

Every effort will be made to ensure that the same passenger assistant and driver continue to transport a pupil/student. We understand disruption can be unsettling and will do our best to minimise changes. This may not always be possible and changes may need to be made, for example as a result of staff unavailability/staff turnover/contract renewals.

5.36

The passenger assistant is not responsible for the administration of routine medical aid/medication during the journey. If an eligible pupil/student has a medical condition which will require the administration of routine medical aid/medication during the journey, the Council will make suitable transport arrangements. Alternatively, the parent or carer could choose to receive a Direct Travel Payment and arrange their own transport.

Medical needs while onboard transport

5.37

The driver and/or any passenger assistant are not responsible for the administration of routine medical aid or medication during the journey. If a pupil/student has a medical condition which would require the administration of routine medical aid or medication during the journey, the Council will make suitable transport arrangements in line with the pupil’s/student’s travel needs assessment. For example, the Council will make suitable arrangements for medical aid onboard transport where a child has complex medical needs requiring a medical professional to administer treatment or medication during the journey. The transport arrangements will be informed by supporting evidence from a senior medical professional e.g. a consultant. Alternatively, the parent/carer may choose to receive a Direct Travel Payment and make their own suitable transport arrangements.

5.38

In the event of a medical emergency while the pupil/student is onboard transport, the driver will stop the vehicle where it is safe to do so. The driver and/or passenger assistant will call 999 and while they wait for paramedic assistance, they will follow the instructions given to them by the emergency operator.

5.39

Parents/carers are responsible for advising the Council of any changes to their child’s medical needs which may affect their transport arrangements. Boarding & Alighting Arrangements

Boarding and alighting arrangements

5.40

Appropriate transport arrangements will be made based on the age and needs of the child. Pick-up and drop-off times cannot be rescheduled to take into account other family commitments. Parents/carers who are unable to be home at the specified pick -up and d rop-off times and location will have to make alternative arrangements.

5.41

Pupils/students receiving mainstream transport assistance are expected to walk up to 1 mile to their pick up point, with or without a parent/carer as appropriate. The pick up point for SEND pupils/students may be a short distance from their home address.

5.42

Parents/carers are responsible for ensuring their child is at the pick -up point near their home and for accompanying their child to/from this point where required. Where necessary, parents/carers are responsible for ensuring they are waiting to meet their child at the setting down point on the return (homeward) journey.

Passenger travel times

5.43

The Council will make every effort to ensure that travelling times to and from school are a maximum of:

• 45 minutes each way at primary school age;
• 75 minutes each way at secondary school age

5.44

The distances involved mean that some pupils/students will have longer journeys. As return journeys are not constrained by specific times, homeward journeys may be quicker than advertised. Every effort is made to ensure that the waiting time on school premises, before and after school, and at pick up and set down points, does not exceed 20 minutes.

5.45

Parents/carers will receive a schedule of journey pick up times and will be notified if there are any changes. Transport during the school / college day

Transport during the school or college day

5.46

Transport is only provided Monday to Friday. The only exception to this may be instances where weekend travel is required for pupils/students who are boarders at residential schools. Transport is provided at the start and end of the normal school or college day. Transport will not be provided for journeys made during the school/college day.

5.47

Travel assistance will not be provided outside of the pre -agreed timetable. Examples of circumstances where travel assistance will not be provided are:

• to enable pupils/students to undertake work experience, work placements, apprenticeships or traineeships
• to enable the pupil/student to attend any off -site provision arranged by the school/college
• to transfer the pupil/student between the main school/college site and a satellite site during the normal school or college day
• for induction or taster days
• to take students home after extra-curricular activities or detentions
• for students who are taken ill at school/college to enable them to return home
• to enable students to attend medical or dental appointments

5.48

In the above circumstances the school, college or parent/carer, as appropriate, must make their own arrangements and pay for transport. Transport for pupils/students with SEND transferring to a different school

Transport for pupils and students with SEND transferring to a different school

5.49

Where an eligible pupil or student with SEND receives Council funded travel assistance, this is arranged from home to the designated school/setting only. When an eligible pupil or student with SEND transfers to a different school/setting, Council funded tr avel assistance will be withdrawn and the pupil’s/student’s eligibility for Council funded travel assistance from their home to the new school/setting will be assessed.

5.50

The parent/carer will need to make suitable travel arrangements while eligibility to the new school/setting is assessed. If the pupil/student is not eligible for Council funded travel assistance to the new school/setting, the parent/carer is responsible for their child’s travel arrangements, including the cost of those arrangements.

5.51

If a pupil or student is confirmed as being eligible for travel assistance to their new school/setting, their travel needs may be reassessed. It can take up to 15 working days from the date that the travel needs assessment is completed to make Council funded travel assistance arrangements. During this time, the parent/carer is responsible for school attendance.

Safety of transport arrangements

5.52

The Council will monitor the routes and vehicles used to ensure that they are fit for purpose and do not pose a risk to anyone travelling on the vehicle or using the route to travel to school. Any vehicle or route found to be unsafe will be withdrawn and a lternative arrangements made until normal service can be resumed. The Council reserves the right to make changes to routes and types of travel as necessary.

5.53

If a parent/carer is concerned about the safety of a route, they should report this to Support Transport.

Identification of new routes

5.54

The Council reserves the right to review all routes in light of any changes to the Admissions Policies, the availability of walking routes and/or areas of new housing. If such changes mean that a pupil/student will no longer be eligible for Council funded travel assistance, then they will be given a minimum of six weeks notice from the date of notification to the parent/carer before Council funded travel assistance is withdrawn.

5.55

Examples of change could include the building of new roads or housing developments, opening of new or repairs to existing footpaths, or changes to the safety of a route as determined by the Council.

Changes to school transport due to severe weather

5.56

If a school decides it needs to close early or not open because of severe weather, we will attempt to advise parents/carers of these changes, using the contact details we hold. This may not always be possible especially in the case of larger schools. The school will advise parents/carers of their procedures in the event of an emergency closure.

5.57

In severe weather conditions, the transport operator is the sole judge of whether to begin or complete a school transport journey, giving priority to the safety of the pupils/students on the vehicle.

5.58

Parents/carers must ensure that the pupil/student is appropriately dressed in case the journey to or from school is very slow or even halted in severe weather.

5.59

In the event that transport is not able to operate in the morning because of adverse weather conditions, but a parent/carer nevertheless decides to take the pupil/student to school, then they are expected to make their own arrangements to collect the pupil /student either at the end of the day or at the time of early closure.

5.60

Drivers are required to seek the safest route and may therefore make changes to the normal routes in order to stay on major roads or to avoid specific hazards. They are instructed that they must only set -down pupils/students at specific set - down points. Where transport is not able to access the predetermined set -down point due to severe weather, passengers may be required to leave the vehicle at an alternative safe location.

5.61

Where a road is too hazardous for school transport in the morning due to severe weather conditions, the transport operator is under no obligation to attempt the afternoon run. Parents/carers would be informed if this is the case so they can make alternative arrangements to collect their child from school. Parents/Carers of pupils or students with SEND who are not at home

Parents and carers of pupils or students with SEND who are not at home

5.62

In the event that parents/carers of pupils/students with SEND are not at home when the pupil/student is returning from school, the driver or passenger assistant will notify the Council’s Client Transport team to seek advice. Where possible, they will continue their route and make a return visit to the family home to check if the parent or carer has returned.

5.63

If the parent/carer has not returned by the end of the route, the driver or passenger assistant will contact the Supported Transport team to inform them of the situation. The Supported Transport team will then inform the Head Teacher and/or the relevant Social Care team. Drivers and passenger assistants will receive further instructions following the advice given by the Head Teacher and may be required to travel back to school to leave the pupil/student with an appropriate adult. In all cases, a note will be left for the parent/carer containing details of who they should contact and the whereabouts of the pupil/student.

5.64

If an incident happens after 5pm Monday to Thursday, and after 4.30pm on a Friday, contact will be made with the Social Care Emergency Duty Team. All incidents will be recorded and considered by the Council.

Residential schools

5.65

The frequency of transport for pupils/students in 52 -week placements will be determined on a case by case basis.

5.66

The frequency of transport for pupils/students in a standard 40 week placement will depend on the number of weeks in the school calendar. The following numbers are for guidance only:

• termly Boarders: 2 journeys each term, 6 journeys per academic year
• half Termly Boarders: 2 journeys each half term, 12 journeys per academic year
• fortnightly Boarders: 2 journeys each fortnight, 38 journeys per academic year
• weekly Boarders: 2 journeys each week, 76 journeys per academic year

5.67

Where a pupil/student is unable to make their journey to school due to sickness or family matters and the Council has been informed at least 24 hours before the journey is due to take place, the journey will be provided at an alternative date agreed between the Transport Officer and the parent/carer. A parent/carer will be expected to make their own transport arrangements if the Council is notified less than 24 hours before the journey is due to take place. General Home to School Transport Guidance

Home address

6.1

Transport assistance is based upon the distance from the home address to school and will be verified using the information supplied by the parent/carer. Normal home address is defined as being the address at which the parent/carer ordinarily resides and with whom the child normally lives for the majority of term-time school nights (Sunday – Thursday).

6.2

In situations of joint parental custody , where the child lives with both parents equally, the home address would normally be that at which the parent/carer, in receipt of the child benefit for that pupil resides. If child benefit is not received, then the address at which the child is registered with a GP will be used.

6.3

It would normally be expected that the home address given when requesting travel arrangements is the same address used when applying for a school place. Educational placement for pupils/students with an EHCP

Educational placement for pupils and students with an EHCP

6.4

Parents/carers have the right to ask for a preferred school/setting to be named in their child’s EHCP when the plan is first drawn up and when the Council amends the existing plan. Where naming the parent’s preferred school/setting would be unsuitable for the pupil’s/student’s age, ability, aptitude or special educational needs, or incompatible with the efficient education of others or the efficient use of resources, the Council must name a different school that would be appropriate for the pupil/student.

6.5

There is no automatic entitlement to travel assistance.

6.6

Where a parent/carer would prefer their child to attend a school that is further away from their home than the nearest school with available spaces that would be able to meet their child’s needs, the Council will consider the cost of the two educational placements. Where relevant, this will include the estimated costs of Council funded travel assistance to each setting. If the Council determines naming the parent’s preferred school would be incompatible with the efficient use of its resources, the Council may:

• name a different school that would be appropriate for the child’s needs, which may be the nearer school, or
• name the parent’s preferred school on the condition that the parent arranges and provides all of the cost of the travel.

6.7

This is at the discretion of the Council based on efficient use of resources. The decision will be made in line with the Council’s legal responsibilities in completing the EHCP.

6.8

The Council will record the decision to name the parent’s/carer’s preferred school on the condition that the parent/carer arranges and pays for their child’s home to school travel. The Council may review the school named in the EHCP if the parent/carer is later unable or unwilling to arrange or pay for their child’s travel.

Change of address and emergency contact details

6.9

Parents have an obligation to notify the council when they move house.

6.10

If an eligible pupil or student moves to an address further away from the school such that their current school is no longer the nearest suitable school, Council funded travel assistance will be withdrawn from the moving date.

6.11

If the parents/carer apply for and are allocated a place at their nearest suitable school, the pupil’s/student’s eligibility for Council funded travel assistance will be reassessed.

6.12

If a pupil or student is confirmed as being eligible for travel assistance from their new home address to their nearest suitable school, it can take up to 15 working days to organise the transport arrangements. During this time, the parent/carer is responsible for ensuring school attendance.

6.13

Parents/carers must provide the council with up to date emergency contact numbers and email addresses. It is the parent/carer’s responsibility to provide updated information where there are changes.

Inaccurate applications

6.14

The Council reserves the right to reclaim the cost of any transport provided, if it is found that any incorrect information has been submitted in order to gain travel assistance. Students living outside of Oxfordshire

Students living outside Oxfordshire

6.15

Students who live outside of Oxfordshire attending a school in Oxfordshire should apply to their own Local Authority for assistance with transport.

Grounds of religion or belief

6.16

There is no eligibility for transport assistance for pupils on the grounds of religion or belief, except in relation to low income families.

Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) checks

6.17

Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) checks are carried out on all drivers and passenger assistants prior to them being employed on Home to School Transport contracts. Following a satisfactory check and appropriate safeguarding training and other relevant training, an identity badge will be issued to drivers and passenger assistants by the Council which is worn at all times as proof of approval to undertake the work. If a driver or passenger assistant cannot produce their badge, the parent/carer should notify the Supported Transport immediately and not let their child travel in the vehicle.

6.18

If parent/carer’s have any concerns regarding the behaviour of drivers or passenger assistants, they should report this immediately to Supported Transport.

Data protection

6.19

The Data Protection Act 2018 and UK General Data Protection Regulation (UK GDPR) regulates the way we use your personal information.

6.20

This information is provided when an application for support is made or when in direct contact with the Council. The Act provides a legal framework to the way we handle this data. Data Protection compliance is not an activity that is done once, and we regularly review our compliance.

6.21

The Council employs a Data Protection Officer. Our data protection policy can be found here on the Council’s website. Expected level of behaviour for all pupils/students

Expected level of behaviour for all pupils and students

6.22

We aim to ensure the safety and well -being of all pupils/students travelling on Home to School Transport. All pupils/students using Council organised transport are expected to meet standards of behaviour that will ensure their own safety and that of other passengers. The Council will work in partnership with schools and other educational settings to promote appropriate standards of behaviour and pupils/students being transported will be expected to follow the same behaviour codes as they do when in school or other educational settings. Behaviour that does not meet our standards will be monitored and appropriate action taken.

6.23

When behaviour first becomes an issue dialogue with the parents/carers and the school/educational setting will begin, with a view to resolving issues prior to any further action being taken. If the issues are not resolved, parents/carers will be notified when transport will be suspended or withdrawn, giving 5 working days’ notice of the suspension/exclusion. This will take the form of a written warning letter, suspension or withdrawal letter. If an incident is of a serious nature the Council reserves the right to withdraw the pupil/student from transport immediately to ensure the safety of the pupil/student and others. In these instances, the parent/carer will be notified.

6.24

The withdrawal or suspension of transport for a set period would be a matter of last resort. The length of the suspension or withdrawal from home to school transport will be dependent upon the seriousness of the incident.

6.25

The decision to suspend or withdraw transport for eligible pupils/students will take into account any special educational needs and disabilities the pupil/student may have that impact on their presenting behaviour. Where this is the case, the Council will work with parents/carers and the pupil/student with SEND (where they have capacity) to identify a lternative solutions to safely transport them to their school/ educational setting. As this is an exceptional circumstance, if an immediate solution cannot be identified a Direct Travel Payment may be offered on a temporary basis.

6.26

Parents/carers are responsible for transporting their own children during any period of suspension or exclusion from transport due to inappropriate behaviour that is unrelated to any special educational needs and disabilities. No refunds for transport provided under the Spare Seat Scheme will be made during this period.

6.27

Behaviour that falls below the required standard includes that which is likely to significantly offend or endanger others, including, but not limited to:

• serious damage to the vehicle by the pupil/student
• actions which may constitute a health and safety risk to themselves or others
• assaults on others
• verbal, written or online abuse of other people including but not limited to swearing, taunting, racist, sexist, transphobic or homophobic comments, threatening behaviour
• incitement of others to engage in misbehaviour
• making repeated malicious false allegations of mistreatment requiring investigation
• serious misuse of a travel pass including allowing others to use their travel pass
• failure to comply with the reasonable instructions of the driver, passenger assistant, Council officer, or authorised member of school / establishment staff

6.28

During the period of suspension or withdrawal, it is expected that parents/carers take steps to address the behaviour. The parent/carer, pupil/student (where reasonable) and school/educational setting will be consulted on arrangements for the return to transport.

6.29

Parents/carers who wish to appeal a decision taken to suspend or withdraw transport should follow the process outlined in the suspension or withdrawal notification letter. This will enable a review of the case.

How to make a home to school transport complaint

6.30

Any pupil, parent or carer wishing to make a complaint relating to Home to School Transport arrangements should complete the School Transport Eligibility Contact Us Form.

6.31

Formal complaints should be made through our Feedback and Complaints Procedure.

Appendix 1

Schools that have opted out of the In-Year Admissions Scheme

All-through schools

All-through schools have an age range of 4 to 18 years. The normal point of entry to these schools is Reception year group.

Primary schools

Primary schools have an age range of 4 to 11 years. The normal point of entry to these schools is Reception year group.

Secondary schools

Secondary schools have an age range of 11 to 18 years. The normal point of entry to these schools is Year 7.

Studio schools and University Technical Colleges

Studio schools and University Technical Colleges have an age range of 14 to 18 years. The normal point of entry to these schools is Year 10.

Appendix 2: Split villages

Transport will be provided to the designated area school from all addresses in the contiguous built-up area of the village because more than 20% of the addresses are closest to the designated area school. Transport will also be provided from individual addresses to the relevant nearest school, if different, where appropriate.

Note: Oxfordshire County Council considers the ‘village’ to be the contiguous built-up area.

An address within the civil parish but outside the contiguous built-up area of the village does not qualify for free travel under the ‘split-village’ rule.

Similarly, where the village name forms part of the postal address but the property is outside the contiguous built-up area of the village, free transport will not be provided under the ‘split-village’ rule.

Appendix 3: School Transport Code of Conduct

The safety and welfare of students travelling on home to school transport is of paramount importance. All parties are therefore expected to follow the School Transport Code of Conduct at all times. Failure to do so could result in home to school transport being withdrawn from a student or a contract with a service provider being terminated.

Any incident reported to Oxfordshire County Council involving school transport and student behaviour will be taken seriously and investigated by Quality Monitoring. Some cases may be referred to Schools Safeguarding Transport and, if necessary, the school or Multi-Agency Safeguarding Hub before action is taken. If a student is excluded from travelling following consistent concern or refusal to follow the code, parents or carers remain responsible for ensuring continued school attendance.

Responsibilities of Oxfordshire County Council

• provide free home to school transport by the most cost-efficient means for eligible students living in Oxfordshire
• provide a safe journey between the designated pick-up point and school site
• ensure the service provider supplies suitable, licensed and insured vehicles and drivers
• agree routes and schedules with the service provider
• ensure drivers and passenger assistants have enhanced DBS checks and relevant training
• issue OCC identification badges to drivers and passenger assistants
• provide route schedules for mainstream primary and secondary routes
• provide passes for students travelling in vehicles with 20 seats or more
• monitor contracts for legal and contractual compliance
• carry out risk assessments where appropriate
• maintain a robust complaints procedure
• investigate complaints and advise relevant parties of the outcome
• handle confidential information in line with UK GDPR

Responsibilities of the service provider

• provide safe travel between designated collection points and school sites
• provide vehicles and drivers that meet legal and contractual requirements
• hold appropriate employers’ liability, public liability and vehicle insurance
• hold an appropriate operator’s or local authority licence where applicable
• comply with all contract terms and conditions
• ensure drivers and passenger assistants hold valid OCC identification badges
• issue drivers with the latest route and schedule
• make no schedule or stop changes without approval from Supported Transport
• immediately report serious incidents to Oxfordshire County Council
• report unacceptable student behaviour promptly
• ensure relevant staff can access SEND risk assessment passenger passports
• handle confidential information in line with UK GDPR

Responsibilities of drivers and passenger assistants

• be presentable and courteous
• follow the relevant code of conduct
• hold and produce the appropriate licence and OCC identification badge
• complete required safeguarding and disability awareness training
• follow the agreed route and schedule unless an exceptional circumstance requires a change
• never leave a collection point before the published time
• only pick up and drop off at designated stops
• check travel passes regularly on vehicles with more than 20 seats
• maintain a safe environment and contact their controller following a breakdown
• not sell or supply goods to students or stop for students to obtain goods
• remain responsible for student safety throughout the journey
• follow emergency protocols and call 999 where necessary
• report misconduct rather than attempting to resolve it, unless immediate safety is at risk
• only stop when necessary for safety, in a safe place and for as short a time as possible
• report serious incidents or accidents immediately
• not provide food, sweets or drinks
• never put a student off a vehicle mid-journey
• secure wheelchairs correctly on every journey
• read relevant risk assessment passenger passports
• hand primary-aged students and students with SEND to an appropriate responsible adult where required
• seek advice before continuing to carry a student whose behaviour creates an immediate danger
• continue their duty of care until the last student has been discharged

Drivers and passenger assistants must ensure that a seat belt or safety harness is available. They are not responsible for fastening it, escorting students into a home or school, or manually lifting passengers into or out of vehicles.

Responsibilities of the school

Schools are expected to promote appropriate behaviour on journeys to and from school. A school cannot exclude a student from transport provided by Oxfordshire County Council.

• take responsibility for student behaviour throughout the home to school transport journey
• have a zero-tolerance policy for inappropriate behaviour
• identify a lead member of staff for home to school transport
• act as the initial contact for complaints about student misconduct or antisocial behaviour
• keep up-to-date records of incidents
• treat reported incidents seriously and notify the Quality Monitoring Team
• work with students, parents and carers to address unacceptable behaviour
• only issue temporary passes to students who are already entitled to travel
• assist students onto and off school transport

Responsibilities of parents and carers

• support the school and service provider by ensuring the code has been read and followed
• ensure their child reaches the boarding point five minutes early
• ensure their child travels safely to and from the designated stop
• meet primary-aged students and students with SEND at the stop where required
• teach their child the safest walking route to and from the stop
• teach their child to consider their own and others’ safety
• ensure their child knows what to do if transport is late or access is refused
• ensure their child carries any required travel pass
• ensure the No Pass No Travel guidance has been read
• ensure SEND risk assessment passenger passports are carried
• work with the council and school where behaviour creates a safety risk
• make alternative arrangements if transport is withdrawn
• remind their child to wear any seat belt or harness provided
• secure seat belts and harnesses for students with SEND before the vehicle moves
• ensure their child follows the driver’s instructions during unscheduled stops
• report incidents or concerns promptly to the council and school
• report changes in personal or family circumstances that may affect eligibility
• not board the vehicle
• not behave in a threatening or abusive way towards transport staff or students

If a child is excluded from transport, parents or carers are responsible for ensuring continued school attendance. They may also be responsible for the repair or replacement of equipment or property intentionally damaged by their child.

Appeals about application of the code can be emailed to schooltransporteligibility@oxfordshire.gov.uk.

Responsibilities of students

• follow the School Transport Code of Conduct
• act responsibly at stops and while travelling
• behave safely and respectfully
• follow instructions from drivers and passenger assistants
• report safety concerns to the named member of school staff

Before the journey to school

• arrive five minutes before the scheduled pick-up time
• wait 15 minutes after the scheduled time before reporting a missing vehicle
• wait in an orderly, courteous and calm manner
• keep away from the kerb and other traffic
• only board the allocated vehicle when it is stationary
• carry and show a travel pass where one has been issued

During the school journey

• find a seat quickly and remain seated
• wear seat belts and harnesses where provided
• only occupy one seat
• not distract or abuse the driver or other passengers
• treat everyone with care and respect
• follow instructions promptly
• not vandalise the vehicle or other people’s property
• not smoke, vape, drink alcohol or consume illegal substances
• not carry an offensive weapon, real or replica
• not throw objects
• not eat, drink or leave litter
• keep the aisle clear and belongings safely stored
• only open the emergency door when instructed or in a genuine emergency

At the end of the school journey

• take all belongings when leaving
• stand back from the road while the vehicle moves away
• only cross after the vehicle has moved away and the road is clear

Bad behaviour may lead to exclusion from home to school transport. Exclusion does not remove the requirement to attend school. Criminal offences may also be reported to the police.

Complaints and concerns

To report an incident involving the behaviour of an adult or student in connection with school transport, email QMCC@Oxfordshire.gov.uk.

‘No Pass No Travel’ guidance for parents, carers and students

Where a pass has been issued, it must be shown to travel. This helps ensure everyone has a seat and can travel safely and in reasonable comfort.

• obtain a temporary pass from the school if an entitled student has forgotten, lost or had their pass stolen
• use a temporary pass for no more than 10 days while arranging a replacement
• purchase a replacement pass if a pass is lost or stolen
• parents or carers should check that a student has a valid pass or wait with them and advise the driver
• out-of-date passes will be confiscated
• call the number on the back of the pass if the vehicle is more than 15 minutes late
• send mainstream transport queries to mainstream.schooltransport@oxfordshire.gov.uk
• send SEND transport queries to ee-specialeducationalneedsITU@oxfordshire.gov.uk
• telephone 01865 323500 for urgent mainstream enquiries or 01865 323795 for urgent SEND enquiries
• return an unneeded pass to Supported Transport Service, PO Box 867, Oxford, OX1 9NR