Under 16 transport

School transport options for children under 16, based on eligibility and distance.

Contents

Getting to School by bus

1. Your Bus Pass

  • Carry it every day. Show it to the driver when you get on.
  • The number on the pass matches the route or vehicle number your child should use.
  • Passes are for the named service only. They cannot be used on other operators or routes. 

2. Before You Travel

  • Plan your journey. Know the route, stop, and time. Arrive at the stop a few minutes early.
  • Make a family plan for delays (for example, if the bus is late or does not arrive). Parents are responsible until the child boards.
  • Make sure the school has your daytime contact number. 

3. At the Bus Stop

  • Stand on the correct side of the road for your direction.
  • Signal clearly to the driver when your bus arrives (arm out). The bus may not stop if you don’t signal.
  • When your stop is near, press the bell once or ask the driver to stop at the next stop.

4. On the Bus

Local service buses (public buses)

  • These buses can carry seated and standing passengers. Pupils may need to stand until a seat is free.
  • Seat belts are not required on local service buses.

Contracted school transport (school vehicles)

  • Seat belts are fitted and must be worn at all times. Parents should remind children to use them; drivers are not responsible for fastening them. 

Code of conduct:

  • Carry your pass and show it every journey.
  • Keep bags out of aisles.
  • Do not distract the driver.
  • Move down the bus; do not stand near the driver.
  • Get on and off safely—wait until the vehicle has stopped, and don’t push.
  • Cross the road safely after the bus has moved away.
  • Emergency exits are for genuine emergencies only. 

5. Delays, Breakdowns and Problems

  • If there’s a breakdown or delay, the driver will call for help and the school will be told what is happening. Children should stay on the vehicle unless it’s unsafe.
  • If a pupil misses the afternoon bus, they should go back into school and tell a member of staff. Parents must arrange how the child will get home.
  • If a pupil stays late for clubs or detention, normal school transport will not bring them home. Local service buses may be an option, but extra fares are not refunded. 

6. Safety and Behaviour

  • Parents are responsible for their child’s safety to and from the pick‑up point and while waiting.
  • Unacceptable behaviour may lead to temporary or permanent removal of transport. Damage caused may be charged to parents. 

7. Using Local Service Buses

  • Your pass lets you travel between home and school on the named local bus service.
  • Check timetables and routes for your school on the council’s timetable pages or via local operators. 

8. Handy Tips for Pupils

  • Keep your pass ready before you get on.
  • Listen to the driver and follow instructions.
  • Press the bell once before your stop.
  • If you feel unsafe or unsure, ask the driver for help. 

9. Who to Contact

For any questions relating to school transport please contact the School Transport team.

You can also contact us via our online form.

Contact the School Transport team