Travel eligibility for pupils attending Alternative Learning Provisions

We are writing to inform you that we are currently consulting on the introduction of a more robust eligibility process into the assessments and decision-making of travel applications for children attending Alternative Learning Provisions.

The review aims to ensure that our procedures are aligned with national guidance relating to school transport eligibility, both statutory and non-statutory.

One of the catalysts for this review is that we currently have two application forms for travel assistance, one completed by parents and carers and one completed by ALPs. There have been recent instances where our main travel application form has been submitted by a parent/carer to request travel assistance to an ALP.

Under 16 application form: Application for Travel Assistance for Children under 16 years of age - Surrey County Council

We want to ensure that the process of assessing eligibility and determining outcomes is as fair as possible while not disadvantaging families who are using the main application form.

We believe that aligning our processes with national standards will enhance the fairness and efficiency of our travel application assessments across both application forms. Therefore, we are seeking your valuable insights and perspectives on this proposed alignment.