Young people

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. What is an ‘education route’ and how does it differ from other bus services?

A. An ‘education route’ is a term used to describe school buses or coaches that are only available to pupils who have been allocated seats. Depending on your location and access to existing transport provision, you may be able to apply for a bus pass on an education route to take you to school/college. For further details click on the ‘16-19 Transport Policy’ link on the right of this page.


Q. I already have a Young Persons Railcard. Can I use this to travel to college or do I need to get a Student TrainCard?

A. Though both the Young Persons Railcard (YPR) and the Herts Student TrainCard (STC) offer a third off adult ticket prices, you may still wish to apply for a STC if you plan to travel early in the morning. This is because the YPR charges a minimum fare prior to 10am, while the STC offers a third off ticket prices at all times of the day. Remember though that the STC is only valid between your designated ‘home’ station in Herts and that nearest to your school/college. For further information click on the 'TrainCard scheme' link on the right.


Q. I live in Hertfordshire but plan to attend a specialist course at a college outside of the county. Can I still receive help with my travel expenses?

A. You may still be able to receive support even if your chosen college is outside of Hertfordshire. To qualify, your chosen school/college must be more than 3 miles from your home and offer a course that is not the same, or broadly similar, to one being offered within the county. Alternatively, if the chosen school/college outside of Hertfordshire is closer to your home than the nearest college within the county offering the required course or one broadly similar, then you may also be eligible for help. Click on the link to the right, entitled ‘What help is available for travel?’ for more details, or telephone 01438 737500 for further information (callers ringing from 0208 or 01923 numbers may wish to dial 01923 471500 in order to be charged at the local rate).


Q. My son has learning difficulties but does not have a Statement of Special Educational Needs. Can he still get help with travel expenses to college?

A. The transport needs of students with disabilities and/or learning difficulties but who do not have a Statement of Special Educational Needs are identified by the Connexions Advisor. Decisions are based upon the location of the course in relation to the family home and recommendations from the Connexions advisor. The situation will be kept under review and though circumstances are specific to each individual case, any costs the student incurs over and above what another student would face when travelling to and from school or college, will be considered for support. For extra details on the schemes available and information on future travel developments for students with learning difficulties and disabilities click on the ‘What if I have a disability?’ link to the right.