Changes to School and Post-16 Transport Policies
Hampshire County Council plans to consult on updates to its School Transport Policy and Post-16 Transport Policy for the 2026/27 academic year.
The proposed updates aim to make both policies clearer and easier to understand. The council intends to withdraw the formal Spare Capacity Seats scheme, as spare seats are increasingly unlikely due to more efficient use of vehicles for eligible pupils.
Seats may still be allocated in exceptional cases at the council's discretion. The School Transport service will continue to meet all legal duties for eligible 5-16 year-olds, with no expected savings from these changes.
For post-16 learners, including those with SEND, the consultation will cover the annual policy update. As
there is no automatic entitlement to council-funded transport after age 16, Hampshire will continue a discretionary offer in certain circumstances.
Author's summary: Hampshire County Council updates transport policies.