School transport charges fury

There are fears that the changes would have a detrimental effect on schools such as St Philip Howard at Barnham, Chatsmore High in Worthing, Bishop Luffa at Chichester and primary schools such as English Martyrs in Goring.

Not only that, but it could put unacceptable pressure on non-denominational schools, chosen as the cheaper option, or there could be more environmental pollution if parents choose to transport their children by car.

Cabinet member for children's services, Mark Dunn, last week announced that school transport charges of 180 a year for each primary school child and 270 a year for each secondary school child attending Church of England or Roman Catholic Schools would be introduced from 2008.

County councillor for Littlehampton East, Dr James Walsh, has slammed the decision and is to ask the select committee at County Hall to call it in to review it, and hopefully to force a change of heart before 'permanent damage' is done to the faith-school community in West Sussex.

For full story see West Sussex Gazette May 16