Dear Parents
Further to my letter regarding Post 16 Transport dated April 2025, Cumberland Council have amended the application process.
For the forthcoming academic year, Cumberland Council request that all parents/carers of Post-16 students apply directly to the Council for a space. A seat, if available, will be allocated prior to the start of the academic year.
This Application Form MUST be completed in all cases and returned to school.transport@cumberland.gov.uk. Your email will be acknowledged confirming receipt.
The charge for a Post 16 spare seat for the 2025/2026 academic year is £655 per annum, payable in termly instalments:
- autumn term – £258
- spring term – £243
- summer term – £154
The timeline of the process is detailed below:
- Apply by Friday 18th July 2025
- Applications must be made on the attached form and emailed to the Council’s Transport Team school.transport@cumberland.gov.uk.
- Seats will be allocated in order of time and date of application
- Parents will be contacted by 8th August to advise if a place is available; this will include an invoice for payment
- Payment will be due by 22nd August 2025
- A Travel Pass will be issued week commencing 27th August 2025 by first class post
- If payment is not received by 22nd August, the seat will be allocated to the next student on the waiting list
The availability of a Post 16 seat is determined by the number of students with a statutory entitlement to transport, and there being sufficient unallocated seats on a contracted vehicle within the PSVAR regulations. Demand for spare seats often outstrips supply, but they are offered as a concession. A minority of students do qualify for a seat under the terms of the Council’s home to school transport policy, but this is limited to those from low-income families, or those with an EHCP where there is a stated transport need.
Information about the scheme is available on the Council’s website How to apply for the Spare Seat Scheme | Cumberland Council.
I know that many of you have already made applications for Post 16 Transport to William Howard School, as this has always been the previous method. Please note that you will be required to repeat this process on this Application Form and email your completed application to school.transport@cumberland.gov.uk
Yours sincerely
Wendy Dixon, Transport Coordinator