School Bus Fares Initiative FAQs
Is there any change to the current process for schools making bookings using the new fare type?
No. There will be no change to the current process for schools making bookings using the new fare type:
On bookable routes - schools / local authorities are advised to continue to contact our travel trade team directly to book their tickets.
On non-bookable routes - schools / local authorities are advised to continue to contact our travel trade team, customer contact centre or local port.
What level of discount will be applied on coach fares for primary and secondary school minibuses?
From 1 December 2021, we will be offering a 50% discount on coach fares for primary and secondary school mini-buses, between 6.01 metres - 8.00 metres in length, including the driver fare - helping school pupils' access educational, sporting, and cultural activities.
On what date will the initiative begin?
This initiative will begin on 1 December 2021.
What type of vehicle is the discount valid on?
The discount is valid on the Road Equivalent Tariff (RET) coach fare for buses between 6.01 metres - 8.0 metres and includes the driver.
Is this discount available on all routes?
Yes, this offer is applicable on all routes to all primary and secondary schools.
Can anyone make a booking?
No, bookings need to be placed by the school or local education authority.
On bookable routes - schools / local authorities are advised to continue to contact our travel trade team directly to book their tickets.
On non-bookable routes - schools / local authorities are advised to continue to contact our travel trade team, customer contact centre or local port.
How long is this initiative in place for?
The initiative will be considered in the longer term as part of the fares policy review in the Island Connectivity Plan.
Are passengers travelling on the bus entitled to a 50% reduction in their passenger fare?
No, the discount is only applied to the bus and driver, not the passengers.
What size of vehicle is eligible?
All school buses 6.01 metres - 8 metres are eligible for this discount.
What if my vehicle is 6.00 metres or under?
There is no change to the category for this type of booking. The booking should be charged at a 5.00 - 6.00 metre midi-coach, which is the 6.00 metre LGV & Driver price.
Is there a limit on the number of bookings a customer can make?
No, there's no limit on the number of bookings a school / local education authority can make.
Are pupils with scholar tickets eligible for a discounted passenger rate, if they are travelling on the bus?
No, this discount can only be applied to eligible school buses and the driver, rather than to passenger travel or to travel not in a school bus.
Are buses for consortium travel or essential commute to/from school eligible for the discount rate?
No - the discounted rate is for primary and secondary school buses travelling on extra-curricular activity e.g. sporting, educational or cultural events.
Are further discounts applied if a blue badge is displayed?
No - Blue badge discounts can only be applied to a car/motorhome/motorbike.
Are there any exclusions?
The initiative extends to school buses with primary and/or secondary school pupils travelling for the purposes of educational, sports or cultural purposes; therefore, for example, school buses travelling with just a driver would not be eligible for the reduced rate.