Travel assistance for primary school children

We may be able to provide free travel assistance for your child to get to school.

Before you apply, check whether your child is eligible. We only provide travel assistance to your child's nearest suitable school. If you choose a school that is further away, you will usually need to make your own travel arrangements. 

Check if your child is eligible

All children

You can get travel assistance to your nearest suitable school if your child is:

• up to eight years old and the school is more than two miles away
• between eight and 11 years old and the school is more than three miles away

We assess each child individually. Your child will not necessarily receive assistance just because their brother or sister does.

Children in low income families

Your child may qualify if:

• they are aged eight to 11
• they attend one of their three nearest schools
• the school is between two and six miles from home
• they qualify for free school meals, or you receive the maximum amount of Universal Credit

Before you apply

Make sure you:

• live in Walsall borough
• have checked that the school is your child's nearest suitable school
• have any supporting documents ready

You can read the full home to school transport policy for detailed eligibility rules. 

How to apply

1. Download and complete the application form:

2. When you've completed your form, save a copy and send it back to us by email along with any supporting information we ask for.
3. We will assess your application. If you're eligible for a free bus pass, we'll send you your claim code.
4. Once you have your claim code, you'll need to complete your application on NX Travel Assist online portal (opens in new tab)

When to apply

Apply as early as possible.

You need to apply every year for a bus pass. You also need to apply again if:

• your child changes school
• your child's educational setting changes
• you move home