To support access to further education the Council expanded its Home to School Transport Policy to include assisted travel for Post 16 students. However there are certain requirements to be entitled to this assistance.

This policy has been reviewed for the 2008/09 academic year. The aim of the review was to simplify the current system by allowing students to receive assistance to their choice of Torbay sixth form or South Devon College with the additional costs being met by an increase in the Post 16 travel charge.

Post 16 Transport Policy from September 2008

There are certain requirements to be entitled to assistance. The main rules are as follows:

• Students must live in Torbay Council’s area.
• Students must be under 19 years of age at 1 September 2008.
• Students must attend full-time.
• Students must either:
  • a) live more than three miles from the School/College attended in the Torbay area
    OR
  • b) the School/College attended is outside the Torbay Area but within daily traveling distance and the student has a compelling reason as to why they must study at this School/College i.e they cannot find suitable courses within Torbay

How do I apply for assistance?

Application forms were sent out to all year 11/12/13 students at Torbay schools in May 2008.

You can also apply by completing the Post 16 Transport Application Form (see Do It Online on the right of this page) and send it back to the address indicated at the top of the form.

The Children’s Services Transport Team will contact you following assessment of the application.

How much does it cost if I am entitled?

Parents/students are expected to make a contribution towards the cost of the travel pass. Please note that these charges are reviewed annually.

For the 2008/09 academic year, the travel pass will cost £300.00 for the full academic year. You can also split the £300.00 payment to 9 x £33.33 monthly payments, or termly at £110.60 for Autumn, £94.70 for Spring and £94.70 for Summer.

Please note that no concessions are available for those in receipt of benefits, as a full EMA (Directgov: Education Maintenance Allowance) is available, please apply for this via your college or sixth form.

You can pay by the following methods:

• Cheque
• Credit/debit card
• Direct Debit
• Cash at the Torquay Collections Office or at a local Post Office

Modes of Travel Assistance

When a student is eligible for assistance with travel to school/college, it is a matter for the Council to determine the mode of assistance which is safe, secure and cost effective. Arrangements include public bus route, ferry, contract coach, contract minibus, contract taxi, parental petrol acknowledgement, walking escort.

Please note that photos are required for travel passes. Please visit the Modes of Travel page for further information

What if I am not entitled?

An appeal can be made on the council’s decision on entitlement to assistance. Please visit the School Transport Appeals page for further information and guidance.

You can also contact Stagecoach to enquire about the tickets they offer.

Post 16 Transport Guide A step-by-step guide on how to apply and pay for Post 16 transport to sixth forms and colleges. It also has details of how bus passes are issued. Last updated: 14/05/2008 (403 KB)

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