Travel Training

Oaklands works with Hertfordshire County Council to support young people with special educational needs to travel independently on public transport.

Hertfordshire County Council’s free Travel Training Programme for young people with SEN can build confidence and independence using buses, trains and walking routes.

Travel training covers:

• Road and personal safety
• How to use timetables and buy tickets
• What to do when things go wrong (for example, if the bus is late or cancelled)
• How and where to ask for help.

Personal 1 to 1 training

A trainer will give you 1 to 1 training and will continue to be your contact afterwards. They will go with you on public transport from home to school or college. Training will take as long as you need, at a pace that suits you. Trainers work during the school and college holidays.

Who is it for?

• Students aged 16-19
• Have an EHCP (Education & Health Care Plan)
• Are a Hertfordshire resident
• Are in receipt of Hertfordshire County Council funded transport; a taxi or PTB (Personal Transport Budget)
• Have already completed the travel training programme but are required to learn a new route to enhance their education/employment opportunities/ changed campus or college course.

What are the benefits?

• Independence and freedom
• Confidence and self-esteem
• Increased access to social opportunities
• Increased accessibility to education and employment opportunities
• Help you to fulfil your potential and live a full life
• Peace of mind for parents/carers that they know their son/daughter is travelling safely and that they are involved in the process
• Valuable part of children and young people’s development
• Encourages exercise and a healthy lifestyle

Past student, Sean said “I began travel training in the summer holidays. I was keen to start travelling, but also nervous.

I need not have worried. My travel trainer showed me everything, including how to speak to transport staff.

The bus drivers have been very friendly and helpful. I felt proud when I went on the bus by myself. My parents were proud too!

If you like the idea of travel training, but you’re feeling nervous, then I would say give it a go. Be positive and you can do it!”

How can I apply?

Speak to your tutor about making a referral or contact a Travel Trainer based at Oaklands College:

Charmaine;

charmaine.rose@hertfordshire.gov.uk

Hayley;

hayley.morris@hertfordshire.gov.uk

Further information can be found here: https://www.hertfordshire.gov.uk/microsites/local-offer/preparing-for-adulthood/travel-training.aspx