Skip to content

Apply for post 16 transport assistance

Subsidised post 16 transport assistance is available to those that have an education, health and care (EHC) plan. For students aged 16 to 19 the contribution for transport will be the same as the fee for a 16+ Kent Travel Saver and can be paid in 3 termly instalments. There is no contribution for post 19 students.

We ask that before you consider to apply for post 16 transport assistance, you try other transport alternatives such as:

Alternatively, if you do not have an EHC plan you may be able to apply for a 16+ Travel Saver.

If successful in your application for post 16 transport assistance it will:

  • allow you to travel to and from your named school or college as noted in Section I of your EHC plan
  • be available at the beginning and end of your school or college day
  • last for one academic year at a time.

The transport assistance is not for:

  • after school/ college activities
  • breakfast clubs
  • induction days
  • medical appointments
  • off site provision
  • work experience.

For transport applications that start before September 2024, read our post 16 to 19 Transport Policy 2023 to 2024 (PDF, 124.2 KB).

For transport applications that start in September 2024, read the post 16 Transport Policy Statement including Post 19 - 2024 to 2025 (PDF, 366.0 KB).

Apply

Apply for transport assistance

If you are having difficulties applying online, email post16transport@kent.gov.uk and to request a paper application.

Timescales

Applications can take up to 6 weeks to process.

Applications for the following academic year should be received no later than 31 May to ensure transport is available for the learner on the first day of term, however, applicants are advised to submit their applications as early as possible to avoid unnecessary delay.

The outcome of your application will be sent by email or letter. Those applying for transport for September (new academic year) will receive details of their travel operator in August.

If you have not received a contact from the travel operator by the end of August, call 03000 41 84 84 and request to speak to the client transport team.

During this time, it is your responsibility to get your child to and from school/ college.

Please refrain from chasing us. Once your transport application has been assessed you will receive an outcome letter from the Post 16 Transport team by either email or post.

Unsuccessful applications

If your application is unsuccessful we'll write to you to explain why.

If you are unhappy with the decision to turn down your application you can email post16transport@kent.gov.uk to outline the reasons why.

Due to the high volume of applications we receive, it will not be possible to discuss your refusal over the phone. If you are still unhappy then you have the right to make an appeal.

For more information you can read our post 16 travel policy.

Alternative transport options

Here are some alternative transport options: