School Transport Appeals in Kent

Kent refused transport? You have the right to appeal. Here's how — from one parent to another.

Updated: February 2026

Who Qualifies for Free Transport?

Kent provides free transport if:

  • Under 8 years old and school is 2+ miles away
  • Over 8 years old and school is 3+ miles away
  • Low income (qualifies for free school meals) and school is 2+ miles away
  • EHCP names a specific school that's beyond walking distance
  • Unsafe walking route — no safe walking route exists

Common Reasons for Refusal

  • School is "within threshold" distance
  • Walking route deemed "safe"
  • No EHCP or EHCP doesn't require specialist placement
  • Application submitted late

How to Appeal

Step 1: Get the Decision in Writing

Always ask for the refusal in writing. This is important evidence.

Step 2: Download the Form

Kent County Council transport appeal form

Step 3: Fill It In

Be specific. Include:

  • Why your child needs transport
  • SEN/EHCP details
  • Why the designated school isn't suitable
  • Any safety concerns

Step 4: Include Evidence

  • EHCP (if applicable)
  • School reports
  • Letters from GP, paediatrician, therapist
  • Evidence of unsafe routes (photos, reports)
  • Benefits letters (if low income)

Appeal Letter Template

[Your Name]
[Address]
[Postcode]
[Date]

To: School Transport Team
Kent County Council

Dear Sir/Madam,

RE: Appeal against refusal of school transport for [Child's Name]

I am writing to appeal the decision to refuse school transport for my child.

[Child's Name] is [age] years old and attends [School Name]. [He/She/They] has an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) dated [date] which names [School Name] as the [placement/school].

The nearest suitable school is [distance] miles from our home. [He/She/They] is unable to walk this distance due to [their autism/sensory needs/meltdowns/running away risk/etc.].

[Include any evidence — e.g., "The walking route along [road name] has no pavement and traffic speeds exceed 40mph."]

I believe my child qualifies for transport under [eligibility criteria — e.g., "Section 508B of the Education Act" / "The SEND Code of Practice"].

I request that this decision be reconsidered. I am happy to provide further information if required.

Yours sincerely,
[Your Name]

💡 Tips from Parents

  1. Be persistent — first appeals are often refused
  2. Document everything — photos of dangerous routes, letters from professionals
  3. Highlight EHCP — if your child's EHCP names the school, transport is usually mandatory
  4. Ask for senior review — if first appeal fails
  5. Get support — IASK Kent can help: 0300 123 6728

Key Contacts

  • Kent Transport Team: 0300 333 5670
  • IASK Kent: 0300 123 6728
  • IPSEA: 0800 018 4016

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