Distance no barrier: Council backs hundreds of students to reach college

Hundreds of young people across North Lincolnshire will continue to receive support with the cost of travelling to college and sixth form – helping ensure where they live does not limit the opportunities available to them.

North Lincolnshire Council will continue its Post-16 Student Transport Scheme for the 2026/27 academic year – supporting more than 900 students each year to travel to further education and school sixth forms.

Cllr Rob Waltham, leader of North Lincolnshire Council, said: “This is simple. If you’re a young person in North Lincolnshire and live more than three miles from college, we will help you get there.

“No family will pay more than £30 a term. That’s a deliberate choice we have made because we will not allow distance to put a limit on ambition.

“A young person living in one of North Lincolnshire’s villages should have the same opportunity to choose the right course and build a successful future as someone who lives around the corner from a college.

“We’ve promised to back young people and back families to make sure opportunity is within reach wherever you live – and this is us keeping that promise.”

North Lincolnshire Council provides mainstream post-16 travel support that neighbouring councils either charge hundreds of pounds for or do not offer.

In North Lincolnshire, students living more than three miles from their college or sixth form can get travel support for a maximum family contribution of just £90 a year.

Elsewhere, families face charges of hundreds of pounds a year – rising to almost £600 in some areas.

The council works in partnership with local colleges and school sixth forms to provide transport support for students who live more than three miles from their place of study. The scheme helps reduce the financial burden on families while encouraging continued participation in education and training.

Cllr Julie Reed, cabinet member for children, families and young people, said: “Every young person deserves the chance to fulfil their potential, and that means removing the practical barriers that can sometimes stand in the way.

“Whether someone wants to study A-levels, learn a trade or develop technical skills, getting to college should never become the reason they miss out.

“This scheme gives families confidence that support is there and helps ensure young people can access the opportunities that will shape their futures.”

The council’s contribution to the scheme will increase in line with inflation for the 2026/27 academic year, with support continuing to be delivered in partnership with participating colleges and school sixth forms.

Students and families can find full details of eligibility and how to apply through their college or school sixth form.