School appeal distance question

[Jaq2]

Hoping someone can advise! We are still waiting for our appeal date and I've submitted my evidence, part of which is that distance to our preferred school should have been calculated differently (don't expect to win on that as they will just say computer says no!). I had read that distance to the allocated school was not a matter that would be considered in an appeal but given that the allocated school is over 5 miles away by car (and I wouldn't dream of letting him cycle on that very busy road) and the bus journey would require 2 buses and take 65 minutes from home to start of school day. That's assuming the first bus was not held up so he missed the second, if he did miss the second bus he would have a wait of an hour or would have to then walk 10 mins to the Bus Station and hope he could catch one of 2 different buses that go on two different routes, one of which would mean he got to school 5 minutes late. If he were to catch an earlier bus from near home to ensure he got there on time, he would have to leave home at 6.45am and would have to hang around outside school for 30 minutes which I think is unacceptable. There is no school bus because traditionally local children have got into the local school (until this year!). Also he is ASD and whilst he could probably calculate his travel time down to the last minute, whether he could catch the right bus(es) or get off at the right stop(s) is another matter. So do I talk about this journey at the appeal? Thank you

[titchy]

Don't know about raising at appeal - I'd have thought not. But you are I hope aware that the LA has a statutory duty to provide free transport as the allocated school is over 3 miles? They may well provide a private coach if there are enough pupils, or a taxi if there aren't.

[Jaq2]

Thanks Titchy. The LA have said we will get a free bus pass for school travel times only. I asked the school about a school bus and they said they will ask the LA about it, the LA said it is for TransportforGM to provide a bus and TfGM said the school has to commission and pay for a bus. So not looking hopeful! I knew of 20 prospective pupils from near us when the places were announced but 5 have now got in (from waiting list), and many of the others have chosen independent schools or to home ed, so not sure how many will end up at the allocated school!

[Jaq2]

Sorry should say 5 have got in to our local school.

[prh47bridge]

At secondary school a journey of up to 75 minutes each way is normally considered reasonable for a secondary school pupil. However, given that the LA has not committed to providing a bus and given your son's ASD, I would raise this as part of your case. You have an argument that your son cannot reasonably be expected to make this journey reliably.

[Jaq2]

Thank you, I will add it to my list!