Under 16 transport to school

If your child lives in Surrey they may be able to get free home to school transport depending on their age, whether they attend their nearest qualifying school, how far away the school is, and their circumstances. The information on this page applies to mainstream children and children with an Education, Health and Care Plan.

The council has reviewed and published its home to school travel and transport policy for the academic year 2020-21 onwards. Details of the consultation process have been made available online, including a summary of the key decisions made by the Cabinet Member for All Age Learning.

Summary of the application process

Step 1: Check if you are eligible for free home to school transport

You should check if your child is eligible for free home to school transport to your preferred school before you apply for a place at the school. If you don't apply for a place at your child's nearest qualifying school, you may not be eligible for free home to school transport.

If your child has an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) they will only be eligible to transport if the school named in the EHCP is the nearest qualifying school that can meet to the child's needs.

Find out how to check if you are eligible for free home to school transport

Step 2: Apply for free home to school transport

If you believe you are eligible, you can apply for free home to school transport online.

Find out how to apply for free home to school transport

Step 3: The result of your application

We assess your application and confirm if you are eligible for free home to school transport. If your application is successful, we will allocate you travel assistance (either bus/train pass, seat on a contract vehicle, or reimbursement).

Find out more about the result of your application

Appealing the decision

If your application is unsuccessful you can appeal the decision.

Find out more about appealing the decision.