Free school transport

Find out if your child aged 4-16 years is eligible to free school transport and how to apply.

Normally it is the responsibility of parents to get their children to and from school safely. However, your child may be able to get free transport to school if they meet one of the following three criteria.

1. Distance criteria 

Free transport may be provided if a child lives the following distances from their catchment or nearest suitable school:

  • 2 or more miles away for a child under 8
  • 3 or more miles away for a child aged 8 and over.
Check eligibility for distance and apply

If your child is starting secondary school in September the School Transport team will contact you by the end of the summer term if you are eligible for free school transport.

2. Special Educational Needs (SEN)

If your child has an Educational Health and Care Plan (EHCP) or a statement of Special Educational Needs (SEN) we may be able to provide transport.

Find out more

3. Families on low incomes

If your child is eligible for free school meals, or your family receives working tax credit at the maximum level (no deductions), you may be entitled to help with school transport.

Check eligibility for low income and apply
 
Last updated:
11 March 2022
Share this
Share this

Do you have any feedback about this page?

Help us improve this website

Let us know if this page was helpful so we can make improvements. Add a star rating and leave your feedback below to show how useful you found this page.

Rate this page:
Clear star rating...
  • West Sussex County Council will only use this email address to respond to any issues raised.