New School Transport Policy sets out clear and consistent arrangements for Cardiff learners
All existing entitlements to free home to school transport will remain in place under Cardiff Council’s new Home to School Transport Policy, which sets out how learner travel needs will be assessed and how free transport will be provided for eligible pupils across the city. The policy also aims to make information, advice and guidance easier for families to access and understand.
Subject to Cabinet approval, the proposed policy reflects the Council's duties under the Learner Travel (Wales) Measure 2008 and confirms that eligible primary pupils living two miles or more from their nearest suitable school, and secondary pupils living three miles or more away, will qualify for free home-to-school transport. Eligibility will continue to be assessed based on the nearest suitable school and the shortest available walking route.
The policy also provides greater clarity on a range of transport issues including Welsh-medium and faith school transport, dual residency arrangements, safeguarding responsibilities, behavioural standards, and support for children with Additional Learning Needs (ALN).
Learners with ALN will continue to have their individual needs assessed, with discretionary transport support available in appropriate cases. The policy also strengthens the Council's commitment to promoting independent travel skills through its Independent Travel Training Scheme, helping young people gain confidence and prepare for further education and employment.
The policy sets out clear expectations for parents, schools and transport providers, including responsibilities around attendance, safeguarding, behaviour and the reporting of transport requirements. It also outlines the Council's approach to route safety assessments, journey times and the use of bus passes and contracted transport services.
It also supports Cardiff Council's wider active travel vision by encouraging walking, scooting and cycling to school wherever it is safe and appropriate to do so. These healthier and more sustainable journeys can bring a wealth of benefits for children and families, supporting physical health and wellbeing while helping Cardiff become a greener city.
Cardiff Council’s Cabinet Member for Education, Cllr Sarah Merry said: "This policy provides a clear and consistent framework for school transport across Cardiff. It ensures that learners who need support travelling to school receive it, while also promoting safe, sustainable and independent travel wherever appropriate.
"The policy has been developed to reflect current legislation, support parental choice, and ensure that transport arrangements continue to meet the needs of pupils across the city."
The policy also introduces a formal two-stage review process for parents wishing to challenge transport eligibility decisions, helping to ensure decisions are transparent, fair and consistent.
The report will go to Cardiff Council’s Cabinet when it meets on Thursday 17th September 2026. A webcast of that meeting will be available to watch on the day here Agenda for Cabinet on Thursday, 17th September, 2026, 2.00 pm : Cardiff Council
Prior to the Cabinet meeting, the report with be scrutinised by The Children and Young People Scrutiny Committee when it meets on Tuesday 8th September 2026.
A recording of that meeting will be available to view here Agenda for Children and Young People Scrutiny Committee on Tuesday, 8th September, 2026, 4.30 pm : Cardiff Council
Subject to Cabinet approval, the new policy will come into effect for the 2026/27 academic year.
Further school transport information is available here: School transport - Cardiff Council