Northern has introduced a new initiative aimed at helping children prepare for the transition to secondary school by building confidence in rail travel before the autumn term begins.

The train operator’s new ‘Settling In’ ticket provides one free adult-and-child day ticket for travel anywhere on the Northern network. The offer is available to families with children currently in Year 6 who will be starting secondary school this autumn.

The complimentary ticket is intended to allow parents or guardians to accompany their child on a practice journey to a school induction day, helping pupils become familiar with their route and more comfortable with their commute, before the start of the new academic year. Northern said the scheme has been launched against a backdrop of pressure on household finances. 

By covering the cost of a trial journey, the operator hopes to reduce one of the many expenses families face during the move from primary to secondary education.

The operator also highlighted wider developments across the railway under public ownership, including efforts linked to the transition towards Great British Railways. These include a focus on reliability, punctuality, reducing cancellations and improving recovery from disruption, alongside the first fares freeze in 30 years.

The scheme is open to all eligible Year 6 pupils travelling to secondary schools served by the Northern network, which serves more than 500 stations across the North of England.

Further information on the offer can be found online.

“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.”

Alex Hornby, Commercial and Customer Director for Northern.