CONSULTATION ON THE CONTINUATION OF FREE TRANSPORT TO DENOMINATIONAL SCHOOLS

1 The Executive Member for Education has given authority to consult about the continuation of free home to school transport to denominational schools. At present, the County Council provides assistance with denominational transport to pupils who live:-

· More than 2 miles but less than 6 miles from their nearest appropriate denominational school if the pupil is 8 years or less;


· More than 3 miles but less than 6 miles from their nearest appropriate denominational school if the pupil is aged between 8 and 11;


· More than 3 miles but less than 10 miles from their nearest appropriate denominational school if the pupil is aged between11 and 16;

2 In the past, the former Education Committee did approve some specific exceptions to this policy where unusual circumstances justified doing so. However, it is now felt appropriate for a number of different reasons, including current pressures on the home to school transport budget, to consult all interested parties, including parents, school governors, diocese and neighbouring local authorities about the continuation of such free transport. A report on the consultation is due to come back to the Children's Services Policy Review Committee on 23 May 2006, prior to being considered by the Executive Member on 25 May 2006.

3 The above decision supports aim 5 of the Corporate Strategy.

FELICITY HINDSON, MBE DAVID KIRK
Executive Lead Member for Executive Member with Special

Children's Services Responsibility for Education

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