HARRIS students met Ensign bus company to press for fair fares for sixth form students at the school.
Vishal Bal, who has gathered the support of dozens of Harris students, secured the meeting through Labour’s candidate to be Thurrock’s next MP, Polly Billington.
“We knew it wasn’t fair that Harris students don’t get the college bus pass when students at Hassenbrook’s, Palmers and South Essex college do, but we didn’t know how to change things, so getting a meeting with the bus company was great. Once you are 16 you pay adult fares. When you are studying that’s a real hole in your budget. So we think we should get the same students rate as others in Thurrock. Ensign say they are very willing to help, so I am hopeful we can sort something out soon.”
Saania Ali, also a Harris Academy student said “Some people have to take jobs to cover their travel costs because their mums and dads are really struggling. We only want equal treatment with other students who live and study in Thurrock. Ensign understand that.”
Polly Billington added: “I was impressed the young people had spotted something that was wrong and were determined to sort it out. They could see it wasn’t fair and are fighting not just for their school, but also students such as those at Ockendon Studio School, who currently pay adult fares once they are 16, even though they are studying. Ensign buses recognise the issue, so we are working with them to solve the problem as soon as possible: it’s not long until the new term in September when the cost of travelling to school and college will start to bite for many families.”
Mike Botton from Ensign said:
“We are keen to support young people in Thurrock who are studying in the borough and this has been something we have wanted to sort for some time, so I was pleased the young people came to us for help. Now we can hopefully get agreement with the schools to make progress.”
