Apology After Free School Bus Passes Declined In Error

North Northamptonshire Council has apologised after parents in Desborough were told their children would not get free school transport.

The authority has confirmed bus pass applications for year seven pupils starting at Montsaye Academy in Rothwell in September were declined in error.

Parents had been left concerned youngsters would have to be taken to school by car or face a walk alongside the busy B576 to get to and from school.

Montsaye Academy

A council spokesperson told HFM: “We sincerely apologise for the distress caused to parents who received letters declining their children’s applications for free school transport for the 2024-25 academic year.

“This was a mistake made by the council due to a recent road safety assessment of the path alongside the B576, which was prematurely designated as “safe” based on the “Walked Routes to School” guidelines.

“The declined applications will be overturned for this academic year, and transportation will be provided as usual.

“We are fully investigating how this error occurred and are committed to preventing similar mistakes in the future.

“We value the safety and well-being of our students and are committed to working collaboratively with parents and the school to ensure a safe and reliable home to school transport service.

“We once again apologise for any inconvenience or confusion caused by this error.”