PARENTS from across Reading are being asked for their views on school transport.
Reading Borough Council’s Brighter Futures for Children says that since Maiden Erlegh Chiltern Edge opened, school provision across the town has changed and it may no longer need to offer free transport to pupils.
It wants to withdraw the service for most youngsters, and redefine the travel assistance entitlement that sees eligible pupils offered a bus pass or a school bus to only cover exceptional additional support.
Parents would be expected to pay for costs incurred if children do not access travel assistance provided, and all support would stop for post-16 educational options bar exceptional circumstances.
A copy of the proposed new policy, a summary of changes, consultation questions and the current school transport policy have been published on the Brighter Futures For Children website.
Brian Grady, director of education at BFfC, said: “We are seeing increased pressures on transport budgets across the country, and local school place options have changed since the introduction of the free transportation to Maiden Erlegh Chiltern Edge school.
“It is important to us that the views of children and young people, alongside their families and carers who may be affected by the proposals, are carefully considered before any decision is made.”
Responses to the consultation should be emailed to: School.Transport@brighterfuturesforchildren.org by midnight on Sunday, March 17.
