Source · Select Committees · Education Committee
Recommendation 50
50
Accepted
Mandate local authorities to provide travel training programmes for post-16 young people.
Recommendation
The Department must mandate that all local authorities provide travel training programmes for young people in this age group, for whom such training is appropriate, to promote independence and safe travel. The Department for Education must work with the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government and the Department for Transport as they prepare to introduce a bespoke formula to recognise home to school transport costs. We support the recommendation of the Transport Select Committee with regard to the provision of bus passes for under 22-year- olds. (Recommendation, Paragraph 187)
Government response summary AI-generated
The Department states they already fund travel assistance to eligible students and provide guidance to local authorities. They are working with other departments on a bespoke formula to recognise home to school transport costs, with a consultation expected in 2026.
Summary of the government's response below — read the verbatim text to verify.
Government Response
Accepted
HM Government · verbatim extract
Accepted
NOT TAKEN FORWARD The SEND Code of Practice (0–25 years) includes details on travel training under its section on preparing for adulthood and independent living. It states that local authorities should consider travel training as part of the support for young people with SEND, particularly when planning transitions to post-16 education or employment. Independent Travel Training (ITT) is a key part of supporting young people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) to develop independence. ITT teaches practical skills for safe travel, such as using public transport, reading timetables, and handling unexpected situations. It is usually offered to learners with an Education, Health and Care (EHC) plan who currently receive travel assistance. Training is tailored to individual needs and can include one-to-one sessions, accompanied walking, or group family training.
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