Will the Minister advise what financial help is available to assist parents with the escalating cost of school transport?
Primary school learners who live more than two miles from school and statutory age secondary school learners who live more than three miles from school are entitled to free home to school transport.
Local authorities have discretionary powers to provide learner travel beyond these mileage limits. As a result of spending decisions made in relation to education in England, Wales received a consequential of £117m a year in the Autumn Statement. This is being provided in full to local government.
For eligible students from low income families considering staying on in post-16 education by attending sixth form or college, Education Maintenance Allowance (EMA) can remove some of those pressures associated with today’s cost of living and learning. An eligible student can receive £30 per week, paid fortnightly. Students can choose how to use their EMA to best support their needs, for example, transport costs, course materials and food.