Temporary vacant seat scheme

Please note: From after October half-term we will no longer be able to offer temporary vacant seats on vehicles exceeding 22 seats which do not comply with accessibility regulations. We will however continue to allocate temporary vacant seats where available on vehicles under 22 seats and those which meet accessibility regulations.

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 to buy 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

How much does it cost?

Please note: the prices below are for 2019-20

Annual Pass

Return Journey: £512.50

One-Way Journey: £256.25

Autumn Term Pass

Return Journey: £112.50

One-Way Journey: £ 56.25

Spring and Summer Term Passes

Return Journey: £200.00

One Way Journey: £100.00

See the information on term dates.

How do I pay?

You can pay either annually or termly by debit or credit card payment.

Direct debits are also available for annual passes. These consist of 6 payments starting in October 2019. You must make the payments on either the 1st or 15th of each month.

Once we have processed your application and you have an allocated temporary vacant seat we will email confirmation. We will include details of how to pay using your chosen payment method in this email. If there is no email address provided we will write to you and enclose this information.

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.