Over 16 student transport

COVID-19 information

We have made the decision to cancel all annual student bus pass direct debits from 1 April. We also intend to issue pro-rata refunds to all those who paid in full. As all payments have been cancelled County Ticket passes will not scan on ticket machines. We have taken this decision as colleges and sixth forms are closed and we are aware of the financial hardship many are finding themselves in due to the Coronavirus pandemic.

Many bus routes are now being operated to revised timetables, which more accurately reflect current demand. Please check bus operator websites or phone them for the latest up to date information or call Somerset Direct on 0300 123 2224 for advice on current bus timetables for services in Somerset.

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2020/21 Academic year

We have taken the difficult decision to suspend the 2020/21 County Ticket scheme due to the on-going impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.

As a result of potential social distancing measures and possible changes to the level of college attendance required from September 2020, an annual pre-paid ticket is not the most viable option.

Due to the potential reduction in the number of days students may need to attend college, the County Ticket option would not be the most cost-effective solution for students at this stage. For those students needing to travel via public transport, purchasing one of the ticket options offered by the public transport operators would be more cost-effective. At this time, we are unable to guarantee the level of service bus operators can provide whilst COVID-19 restrictions remain in place, including evening and weekend travel which is an additional benefit of the annual ticket.

For those students who need to access public transport from September, purchasing tickets directly from the bus operator would be the most flexible and cost-effective option under the current circumstances. Bus operators will continue to offer discounted student tickets and for further information, please refer to our Post-16 Transport Policy.

Transport ticket options

All bus operators offer a range of daily tickets and most can offer types of season tickets at a discounted rate and we have included some information in the Post 16 Transport Policy Statement 2020/21.

We strongly advise you to check your options with the various bus operators to ensure you are aware of the most appropriate ticket for your individual needs. Please be aware that Somerset County Council has no control or responsibility over the amount commercial operators charge for their own tickets. They also have the right to vary their ticket prices as and when they feel it is commercially necessary.