There have been some changes to the bus service between our school and Rugeley which in the early weeks of term caused a few problems.
However, things appear to have settled and we have sought guidance from Midland Classic about how children can make sure they get home on public transport.
James Boddice, from Midland Classic, outlined the new operations by clarifying that: “Chaserider operate routes 826/828 to provide a bus every 30 minutes between Stafford and Lichfield during the daytime. This bus route includes the Longdon turn-offs, Brereton and Rugeley. On top of this, Midland Classic have identified a commercial need to provide route 829 to ensure between all of the buses that there is enough capacity to ensure those children who are travelling to the school of their choice, rather than their catchment school for which the local authority provide transport, can travel. Tickets are inter-available between all routes so children, as an example, can use one provider in the morning and the other provider in the afternoon.”
Lisa Pratt, School Manager, said: “Midland Classic have been helpful in terms of seeking to clarify the new arrangements. It is important to note that these bus services are provided by private companies – and they sit outside of Staffordshire County Council’s offer – so in fairness the companies have to run services which are financially viable. After initial upheaval caused by the changes, caused by a former provider closing down, the new bus routes seem to be settling and students are better aware of their options either directly from the school site or from nearby community bus stops.”
Matt Allman, Headteacher, added: “We attract some fantastic students from along this bus route and we are pleased that things are settling down in terms of to-ing and fro-ing to school. All change brings an immediate period of disruption but we have noticed more seating still available on the buses over the last couple of weeks. It does look like early teething problem have cleared up.”
