Kent County Council's new post-16 card will take effect in September

Students and apprentices will be able to travel around the county for £10 a week

A new travel card has been launched by Kent County Council to help students and apprentices over 16 get around the county.

The post-16 travel card, which will come into effect in September, will offer a year’s bus travel across Kent for £10 a week and gives holders the same benefits as the existing Freedom Pass.

The value of the card is £750, but KCC have pledged to subsidise the card by £230 to ensure young people can afford to stay in education or training.

The card came about following consultation with Kent Youth County Council and a trial with students in the area.

KCC cabinet member for education, learning and skills Mike Whiting said: “This card is particularly important. It provides students and apprentices with the ability to get around at this key point in their lives.

“By supporting travel, we can help young people continue with education and training. For those still at school, it will offers flexibility to make the most of opportunities and activities out of school hours. But just as importantly, apprentices and those working a weekend job to gain experience have some help.”

Anyone wanting to have their card ready for the start of the new academic year will need to have submitted an application before 27 July.

For more information, visit www.kent.gov.uk/roads_and_transport/getting_around/travel_by_bus/kent_16_plus_travel_card.aspx