Students qualify for help with transport if they:

• start a new course
• are aged between 16 and 18
• meet either all of criteria 1 or all of criteria 2

Criteria 1:

• live in Bournemouth, Christchurch or Poole
• study a full-time course (a minimum of three full days or 16 hours per week)
• aged 16 or 17 at the beginning of the academic year in which they apply. In some circumstances it may be possible to support students up to the age of 25 if they continue an existing course of study
• have a current EHCP
• attend the nearest suitable school or college which offers a course that meets their employment or education objectives

Criteria 2:

• live in Bournemouth, Christchurch or Poole
• study a full-time course (a minimum of three full days or 16 hours per week)
• aged 16 or 17 at the beginning of the academic year in which they apply. In some cases it may be possible to support students up to the age of 25 if they are continuing on an existing course of study
• has previously had an EHCP
• has an ongoing significant disability or medical condition. The application must be supported by appropriate evidence. For example a letter from a GP, specialist or consultant detailing the nature of the condition and how it impacts on travel
• attend the nearest suitable school or college which offers a course that meets their employment or education objectives

The local authority decide if a course is compatible.

Eligible students or their families are asked to contribute towards the cost of their transport. For the 2024/25 academic year this is £525 per annum, which can be paid in three instalments if preferred.

Families on a low income may not need to pay this if they meet the eligibility criteria for either:

• Pupil Premium
• Tax Credit at the maximum level

How to apply

You can use the Home to School transport app to apply.

If you are unable to use the app, you can download and complete our SEND Years 12-13 Home to school transport application form and contact us by:

• telephone on 01202 127 963
• email at htst@bcpcouncil.gov.uk

Other help if you do not qualify

Students aged 16 to 19 years old can ask for help through their college or school through the 16-19 Bursary Fund if they:

• are in or recently left local authority care
• get Income Support or Universal Credit in their name
• are disabled and get both Employment and Support Allowance and either Disability Living Allowance or Personal Independence Payment in their name

Contact the school or college direct for more details.

If students receive Disability Living Allowance, there may be an element within the allowance that relates to transport already.

If students have a disability you may be entitled to a Connect Pass for off-peak travel on local bus services.

Schools, colleges and training providers may also be able to award bursaries to young people on a discretionary basis. Please contact the school or college for further information.

Bournemouth and Poole College

Bournemouth and Poole College is well served by public bus services through morebus, with season tickets and travel passes available.

Bournemouth and Poole College offer a range of bursaries and grants, some of which are designed to assist with travel costs.

Brockenhurst College

Brockenhurst College provides subsidised travel to students via the national rail network, served by South Western Railway, and an extensive network of College bus routes.

Kingston Maurward

Kingston Maurward College operates a subsidised double decker bus and minibus service for students with pickup points across the county.

Sixth Form

If you are attending a school sixth form, your school may be able to offer you some level of financial support. This will vary in different schools, so please contact your school direct to ask whether they can offer any help.

If you are refused transport assistance you can appeal against the decision.