Change of policy for Home to School Transport in Essex

Following the recent change in transport policy which has been introduced in Essex from February affecting the children about to start Secondary School in September 2015. Notwithstanding the “underhand” manner in which this policy has been introduced, we would like to object to the implementation of this policy which is discriminatory and has been applied inequitably. It is also morally unjust. Additionally, Essex are the only county in England to take this stance on providing transportation to catchment schools which is in direct contravention of the advice and guidelines given by the Department of Education.

The policy states that transport will only be provided to the nearest school, however due to the way in which places are allocated for secondary schools within Essex by catchment area, many of the schools which are technically closer for children are not within catchment, and in some cases not even within the local borough or even county.
This policy seems to have been driven by finance and has not taken into consideration the children’s wellbeing and education. It will place some children in danger, and is inequitable and morally unsound. The parental right of choice and the safety and wellbeing of children has been brought into question.