Special educational needs [SEN] - transport
The LEA provides a home to school transport service for
pupils:
- With special educational needs up to the age of
19
- With medical needs up to the age of 19
- Who are excluded from school
- Who have a diagnosed phobia of school
- Who are pregnant or schoolgirl mothers.
The transport is provided in a number of ways:
- Free travel permits for public transport
- Mini-bus from home to school
- Specialist mini-bus, e.g. tail-lift vehicle
- Taxi/people carrier
- Wheelchair accessible taxi
Entitlement to and review of transport provision
Entitlement to transport for children is based on an assessment
of individual need. The LEA has produced a standard form for
completion as part of the assessment process. The professionals
involved in the assessment of children will complete this form in
discussion with parents and carers. The information provided allows
the transport staff to make an informed decision on the type of
vehicle to be provided, the correct restraint and clamping systems
to be used and the level of supervision/care.
If it is decided that the child's special needs do not require
special transport arrangements then the general home to school
distance policy will apply.
Transport arrangements will be regularly kept under review. The
annual review required for those children with a statement of
special educational needs provides a formal opportunity to review
any transport arrangements.
Parental preference and transport
If parents choose to send their child to a school that the Local
Education Authority does not consider to be the nearest suitable
school, there is no duty to provide free transport. In such
circumstances parents will be required to make their own transport
arrangements or pay to access services.
The LEA does, however, retain its discretion to provide free
transport or to make a contribution to parents towards the
cost.
