Temporary vacant seat scheme
Vacant seat update
Applications for the next academic year - September 2020
The Temporary Vacant Seat Scheme is currently suspended for applications for transport from September 2020. If you have previously made an application for the next academic year this will not be processed at this time and it is important that you make your own transport arrangements from September 2020.
Due to the Covid-19 pandemic we are unable to offer the scheme for the new school year. The capacity of vehicles will be greatly reduced due to social distancing requirements which will be operating in the region of 25% of their usual capacity.
Any updates will be made on this page so please continue to check back.
Summer Term 2020
Temporary vacant seats for the summer term 2020 will continue to be provided due to limited school attendance where seating capacity allows - taking into account social distancing requirements and will remain free of charge. Children will not be issued with a new pass and should continue to use their spring term pass for the summer term. All operators have been informed to accept expired passes.
What is the scheme?
This scheme is where we have hired a vehicle and it has more seats than we need for pupils entitled to free or subsidised transport. Spare seats may be available through our application process for pupils not entitled to free transport.
The number of seats for this scheme are limited and we cannot guarantee a place. There is no guarantee that a seat will be available under the scheme, nor is it a statutory requirement to offer a seat. Should a seat not be available you remain responsbile for arranging and funding travel as you feel is necessary.
How do I apply?
Please ensure that you have read and understood our guide to temporary vacant seats before you apply:
The easiest way is to apply online.
Your data
Any personal data collected through your application for a temporary vacant seat is handled securely and in accordance with the Data Protection Act 1998.
We will use the information to process your application for a temporary vacant seat.
The county council uses personal information about children and families to enable it to provide relevant services to them and to carry out specific functions for which it is responsible.
For more detailed information please see our data information pages.
When does transport start?
Mainstream schools
At the beginning of the autumn term where available.
Special educational needs schools
This is allocated after October half-term.
This is due to the late notification of entitled special educational needs pupils requirements. It will also reduce the possibility of the seat being withdrawn after allocation.
Contact
Mainstream applications
Special Educational Needs (SEN) applications
Office hours
Monday to Thursday 8:30am - 5pm
Friday 8:30am - 4:30pm