Transport

The council has a policy of providing free transport to all primary pupils who live more than one mile from their local school by the shortest safe walking route. This policy is more generous than the law requires. This means that the provision of transport could be reviewed at any time. Parents who consider they are eligible should obtain an application form from the school or Learning and Leisure Services. These forms should be completed and returned before the end of February for those pupils beginning school in August, to enable the appropriate arrangements to be made. Applications may be submitted at any time throughout the year but may be subject to delay whilst arrangements are made. There is discretion in special circumstances to grant permission for pupils to travel in transport provided by the authority where spare places are available and no additional costs are incurred.

While free transport is provided, it may be necessary for pupils to walk a certain distance to the vehicle pick up point. Walking distance in total including the distance from home to the pick up point and from the drop off point to the school in any one direction will not exceed the authority’s limits.

It is the parent’s responsibility to ensure that their child arrives at the pick up point in time. It is also the parent’s responsibility to ensure the child behaves in a safe and acceptable manner while boarding, travelling in and alighting from the vehicle. Misbehaviour could result in a loss of right to free transport.

The council does not provide transport for those pupils in receipt of a placing request other than in exceptional circumstances. In the case of early entry requests if the child is offered a place in the catchment area school, transport will be provided in accordance with council policy stated above.

If you can walk with your child to school, it is better for you and for your child – healthier and safer for everyone. This avoids traffic congestion and reduces the chances of accidents in the vicinity of the school. If you must bring a car, please use the ‘dropping off’ zone and do not park opposite the school or on the zigzag lines. This will help keep all children safe.

When coming into school, children should follow the footsteps and go round the building. The kitchen is at the back of the school and lorries deliver foodstuff at all times, making this a hazardous area for children.