When planning school trips, do consider using the local buses wherever possible.
We’ve put together a Why use the bus? guide – the information is also pasted below.
Why use the bus?
· It’s cheaper, with lower bus fares for children and young people
· Up until 2025, there’s free travel for up to four children aged 19 or under when accompanied by a fare paying adult or an adult concessionary pass holder
· You help towards easing congestion, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and improving the City’s air quality
· It’s a valuable life experience for children
· It’s healthier (more walking is involved)
· It has a better safety record than coaches or cars
· Popular City spots are well within reach, including the City Centre, Devil’s Dyke and Stanmer Park, plus further destinations such as Eastbourne, Shoreham, Steyning and Lewes.
Booking
· You can book to travel as a class of up to 40 and providing there is capacity on the bus, be able to board as a whole group
· As this may not always be possible, any booking over 30 will automatically be issued as two tickets to facilitate a group split if required. Always plan your staffing ratios accordingly, avoiding a lone adult supervisor scenario.
Top tips
· A 10- or 15-minute walk to another bus stop can often give you a lot more travel options
· Plan to travel between 9.30 am and 3 pm (off-peak)
· Plan your journey using the B&H bus website journey planning tool or contact the customer support team on 01273 886200 or [email protected]
· Buy group tickets at least a week in advance to give the bus company time to post them out to you
· Sit upstairs in groups, wherever possible
· Appreciate the bus driver’s needs, such as complying with the Disability Discrimination Act
· Be mindful that seating is limited to 62 in some buses so they will have less capacity for schools
· Report any issues to: [email protected]
· Whilst other coach providers have deals, we are aware that Spirit of Sussex’s filler service, at The Spirit of Sussex (buses.co.uk), 01273 886 222 or [email protected], is much cheaper than the cost of a normal coach service, operating between 9.30 am and 2.30 pm. It is popular, though, so book as far ahead as possible.
Includes Brighton & Hove buses, Stagecoach, Compass Travel & The Big Lemon services.