Changes have been made to some routes as year seven students are integrated into high schools
With the transition of Queensland’s Year seven students into high school this year, TransLink is encouraging parents to check back-to-school public transport arrangements before the start of the academic year.
Department of Transport and Main Roads Director-General Neil Scales says enhancements have been made to several routes throughout South East Queensland (SEQ) to accommodate the year 7 changes.
“Parents and students should familiarise themselves with school bus routes for 2015 by contacting their school bus operator or school to see whether their bus route has changed,” he says.
“These school bus routes have been designed to improve transport for students, and provide better travel options for all the pupils who are gearing up for the start of yet another school year.
“A number of bus routes will be extended or diverted to service high demand areas, including several high schools, to cater for the year seven changes.
“School bus routes are reviewed at the start of every year and we work with our operators to ensure the needs of students are met.
“Changes to school bus routes are made based on a number of factors, including enrolment numbers and the feedback we receive throughout the school year.”
Scales also reminds parents to check the validity of their child’s travel or go card, as well as the expiry on necessary student identification cards prior to the start of the school year.
“Bells are ringing, backpacks are packed, and we’re strongly encouraging students to take advantage of the many benefits of travelling with a go card,” he says.
Eligible students can also receive assistance with their commute to and from school with the state-wide government initiative, School Transport Assistance Scheme (STAS), when travelling on trains, trams, ferries and school buses.