Independent Travel Training

Being able to travel independently is an important life skill that gives you the freedom to go to school, college or meet up with friends without needing support.

Our Independent Travel Training (ITT) helps young people with SEND feel confident and safe when using public transport. You’ll get one-to-one support to learn everything you need for safe and independent travel.

What You'll Learn

  • Planning your journey.
  • Using buses, trains, or walking safely.
  • Road and personal safety.
  • What to do if plans change or things go wrong.
  • Managing time and keeping track of your journey.

You will practice in real-time on the actual route you’ll be taking to school, college or other activities. At first, your travel trainer will go with you, but over time, you’ll become more independent.

The Training Steps

  • Step 1: Learn your route and safe crossing skills.
  • Step 2: Practice with your trainer and handle “What if?” scenarios.
  • Step 3: Start traveling part of the route independently.
  • Step 4: Travel all the way by yourself while being checked for safety.

Your progress will be reviewed regularly, and your family will be kept updated.

What happens when you finish training?

Once you complete the training, you’ll be able to use public transport instead of relying on a taxi or minibus provided by the SEN transport service.

This means more autonomy and more opportunities and choices in your life!

How to Apply or Refer Someone

Anyone can refer a young person for travel training! We just need to check if they qualify for SEND travel assistance.

If you don’t receive travel assistance yet, you can apply here.

If you already receive travel assistance, complete this referral form and send it to traveltraining@croydon.gov.uk.

Start your journey to independence today!

Need More Information? Contact us!

Contact the Travel Training Team.

Telephone: 020 8760 6000 ext. 44188

Monica Clarke (Independent Travel Training Co-ordinator)

monica.clarke@croydon.gov.uk | 020 8760 6000 ext. 28276

Jackie Wright (Deputy Head of Service – Independent Travel)

jackie.s.wright@croydon.gov.uk | 020 8760 6000 ext. 28149