LeShuttle simplifies border processing for UK schools

A new border processing model was introduced on 16th July by LeShuttle for eligible UK school groups travelling by coach from Folkestone to Calais, as agreed with the French authorities.

The change is expected to result in a reduction in border processing times by removing the need for schools and operators to submit advance passenger spreadsheets. Similar to the MOANA scheme already in place at UK ports, eligible groups can now simply notify LeShuttle of their passenger information before travel and make a declaration at the terminal on the day of departure.

How the process works

• Schools or coach operators must notify LeShuttle at least three days before travel that the booking is for a school trip and provide proof that the school is a registered UK educational establishment.
• LeShuttle will issue a School Group Coach Sign (PDF), which should be printed and displayed in the coach windscreen on arrival.
• At the French border, the lead teacher confirms the number of pupils travelling and declares the minimum and maximum age of the group.

The process removes the need for coach operators to collect and submit passenger information in a prescribed format before travel. 

“School travel should be about the experience, not paperwork,” said Tracy Bayliss, head of coach and trade sales at LeShuttle.

“By building on the proven approach used at the ports and tailoring it to LeShuttle’s unique operating model, we’re making it easier for schools and coach operators to benefit from a faster process, while keeping the crossing itself as quick and frequent as ever.”

With a crossing time of 35 minutes terminal to terminal and up to four departures an hour, plus capacity for six coaches per hour, LeShuttle provides the fastest route between the UK and continental Europe. School groups and coach operators benefit from designated coach lanes, express check-in and a dedicated coach hall.