We, the undersigned, strongly oppose the removal of the school bus service for students attending Heolddu Comprehensive School from September 2026.

This decision places an unacceptable burden on children as young as 11, who will be expected to walk long and challenging distances to school without supervision. Many will face uphill routes while carrying heavy school bags, and will be required to leave home early in the morning in darkness—putting their safety and wellbeing at serious risk.

The journey itself is unsafe. It involves walking along and crossing busy main roads, often without adequate lighting or safe crossing points. These are not suitable conditions for children to navigate alone on a daily basis.

In all weather conditions—particularly heavy rain and poor weather—children will arrive at school wet, cold, and uncomfortable, expected to remain in damp clothing throughout the day. This not only affects their health but also their ability to focus and learn.

There are also serious concerns around personal safety. Risks related to crime and anti-social behaviour cannot be ignored, and many parents do not feel it is safe for their children to make this journey alone. The extended, unsupervised route also increases the risk of bullying, leaving vulnerable children exposed and unsupported.

Parents have a legal and moral duty to protect their children. Expecting families to send their children on a journey that may place them at risk creates an impossible situation and undermines that responsibility.

Not all children are ready to undertake such a journey independently. Maturity, confidence, and awareness of road safety vary, and for many families, the risks are simply too great.

This decision also risks negatively impacting school attendance and punctuality. The length, difficulty, and safety concerns of the journey may prevent children from attending regularly or arriving on time, ultimately affecting their education and future opportunities.

Furthermore, not all families have access to a car or the flexibility to provide daily transport. This creates inequality and places additional barriers in the way of children accessing their education safely.

While this decision may meet welsh government safety criteria, it fails to reflect the reality of the journey our children will face every single day.

We call on Caerphilly County Borough Council to urgently reconsider and:

• Reinstate the school bus service, or

• Provide a safe, reliable, and appropriate alternative transport solution

Our children’s safety, wellbeing, and right to equal access to education must come first.

Sign this petition to demand action now!