Learning to travel independently can be a major step toward greater freedom and confidence for children and young people (CYP) with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND).
Our Independent Travel Training (ITT) programme is designed to help young people, who are eligible for home to school travel assistance, gain the skills they need to travel safely to and from school or college.
This training goes beyond just getting from A to B. It helps to build social skills, self-esteem, and confidence, which are vital for a smooth transition into adulthood. Our dedicated travel trainers work with young people at their own pace, ensuring they feel secure and fully supported throughout the process. The training covers essential skills like road safety, using public transport, reading timetables, and knowing what to do in unexpected situations.
Real-life benefits: a case study:
After his travel training a 16-year-old with autism, now travels to college on his own. Initially, his parents were anxious about him using public transport, but the one-on-one support from his trainer helped him build the confidence and practical skills he needed. His parents report that he's not only more independent but also more engaged and happier, and he even meets up with friends after college now - something he rarely did before.
Is Independent Travel Training right for you?:
ITT is a fantastic option for many young people with SEND who want to build their independence. To find out if your child or young person is eligible and to learn more about the programme, visit the Home to School Travel Assistance pages or contact us directly at EducationTransport@southend.gov.uk