Northern Offers Free Trial Train Journeys For Year 6 Pupils Starting Secondary School

Northern has introduced a new ticket offer aimed at helping children build confidence using the railway before they start secondary school.

The train operator’s new Settling In ticket will provide one free adult and child day ticket for families with a Year 6-age child who is due to move from primary to secondary school this autumn.

The ticket will be valid across the Northern network and is designed to allow a parent or guardian to accompany their child on a practice journey to their new school induction day.

Northern said the idea is to give pupils the chance to become familiar with their route, understand the train journey and feel more comfortable travelling before the start of the new school year.

The scheme is being launched as many families continue to face pressure on household finances. Northern said the free trial run is intended to remove one potential cost during what can already be an expensive period for parents.

The offer is open to all Year 6 pupils moving to a secondary school served by the Northern network. Families are being encouraged to use the ticket before the autumn term begins so children can get the most benefit from the experience.

Northern said the scheme comes as the rail industry continues its move towards Great British Railways, with publicly owned operators expected to focus on reliability, value and a better passenger experience.

The operator said work towards GBR includes efforts to improve performance, reduce cancellations, boost punctuality and recover more quickly when disruption occurs.

It also pointed to fares being frozen for the first time in three decades, alongside plans for improved accessibility and a more joined-up approach between track and train.

Alex Hornby, Commercial and Customer Director for Northern said:

"Here at Northern, we know that starting secondary school is a huge milestone for young people, and we know that for many families, every pound counts right now. These free introductory tickets are our way of making sure that getting to grips with the train journey - building that independence and confidence in their own ability to travel - doesn't come at a cost. We want children to arrive on their first day of secondary school feeling ready for the year ahead."

Rail Minister, Lord Peter Hendy said:

"This kind of offer is exactly what we want to see from publicly owned operators as we move towards Great British Railways. As we undertake major reforms across our railways, we're making sure that travelling by train is an affordable and accessible option for young people getting to school. That's why we've frozen fares for the first time in 30 years, helping with the cost of living, and are building a reliable railway that puts passengers first."

Image: Northern