SIXTH form students at Harris Academy Chafford Hundred can now get reduced fares on Ensign buses thanks to a campaign led by Polly Billington, Labour’s candidate to be Thurrock’s next MP.
She has been working with sixth form students from Harris Academy, Ockendon Studio School and all across Thurrock on a Fairer Bus Fares campaign. This week she has written to all Headteachers of sixth forms where the students don’t yet receive the discounted ‘college pass’ encouraging them to get involved with the campaign that will reduce bus fares for Thurrock sixth form students in full time education.
Polly said: "After months of working with Thurrock Young Labour on this campaign I’m delighted to have been able to negotiate travel discounts for Harris academy sixth form students and we have been working with Ockendon studio school too. Even better, Ensign are keen to work with Ormiston Academy so students attending the academy in Aveley should also be able to get the reduction.
The Tories abolished educational maintenance allowance (EMA) in 2010 resulting in Thurrock’s students paying full adult fares to get to college. Thanks to a great team of campaigners and the enthusiastic cooperation of Ensign bus company all sixth form students can now use the ‘college pass’ discount scheme. That’s a saving for students and families of hundreds of pounds in some cases, not something to be sniffed at with household bills rising faster than wages.
Harris Academy, Chafford Hundred spokesperson said: “We are delighted that our students can participate in the scheme. It is wonderful to see the views of young people in Thurrock being taken into account”.
If you would like to find out if you or your child is eligible for the scheme, please email Polly Billington on: [email protected]
