How do I get to Winstanley College?
Transport to Winstanley College is divided into two parts:
1. Private Coaches (contracted by Winstanley College, mostly outside the Greater Manchester boundary) You will need to reserve and pay for a place on these services.
2. Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM) buses. These are operated as part of the Bee Network.
All TfGM routes can be found here Winstanley College | Transport for Greater Manchester (tfgm.com) – You do not need to reserve a place on these services. But you do need to check for the correct fares and also check the link regularly as they may make changes to timetables.
It is also worth taking the time to look at other possi ble public bus and train routes as one may be better or more cost effective than another.
Guidance and Helpful Tips for Students Parents/Carers
It is important that all students, parents/carers read this guide carefully. Especially if choosing a private coach service.
We advise students to be at their bus stop at least 10 minutes before the bus is due to depart, this way you know you won’t miss the bus. It’s important that students continue to do this throughout the year.
Drivers have a timetable to follow so they won’t wait for any student who is running late.
Buses and coaches will NOT stop automatically at each bus stop along the route, students must take responsibility and put their hand out to stop the vehicle otherwise it will drive past.
Students should familiarise themselves with the bus or coach number which is displayed at the front of the vehicle. This is really important as vehicl es can change, for example, the morning vehicle could be a blue single decker bus, however in the afternoon (or next day) it could be a red double decker. Always look for the bus/coach number not the size/colour of the bus.
It is the student’s responsibility to look for their bus or coach at the end of the day, by checking every vehicle all the way to the front of the bays. Drivers do try and get in the same bay but there can be occasions where this may not happen. Although we are there to help students for the first 2 weeks of starting College, students have to be proactive and vigilant. Waiting for friends/texting on phones is a common reason students miss their bus or coach which then results in a very costly/inconvenient journey home for parents/carers to organise.
Students must always wear their lanyard around their neck as it is easier to show the driver their pass. Passes must be visible and not defaced with stickers or have information scratched off.
The first private coach pass is issued without charge as part of the process; however, any further lost coach passes need to be replaced by purchasing a new one by approaching Student Services
Timetables are a guide, and the College cannot be responsible for the unpredictable/unexpected flow of traffic from one day to the next.
Private coach passes are not transferable, students cannot ‘hop’ between two different private buses, and they are not accepted on any other bus.
‘Dual’ coach permits are only provided if there are sufficient seats on both vehicles, they are not guaranteed. Students can only select one primary coach number.
Contact Transport@Winstanley.ac.uk for any queries.
Students Code of Conduct
Students must adhere to the Code of Conduct when using any bus service.
We expect all students to behave appropriately and show respect to each other and the driver.
Smoking/vaping is not permitted on any buses.
Eating is not permitted (unless drivers have agreed).
Students must not leave rubbish on vehicles; any rubbish can be brought into College to be disposed of. There are several waste bins provided in our bays for convenience.
Students must always remain seated, no walking or changing seats as this can obstruct the driver’s rear vision or distract the driver.
Loud noise levels are not permitted, for example shouting or playing music, as this can cause distraction for the driver and affect the comfort of the journey for other passengers.
No bags or feet are to be placed on empty seats as this will prevent others from sitting down. Services are busy and you’ll need to be prepared to sit next to someone you do not know.
Inappropriate ‘banter’ will not be tolerated, and any breach of the Code of Conduct will result in the student being withdrawn from using the services.
Settling down period
Buses and coaches are very busy during the first few weeks of term, but things do settle down. All transport enquiries must be made by email to Transport@Winstanley.ac.uk . We aim to respond within 2 working days, though some issues may take longer while we consult with operators. We appreciate your patience.
Please note:
Any changes to routes or timetables will be sent to students via their college email in the first instance.
We understand this can be a stressful time, but we will not tolerate any verbal abuse toward staff.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if I can’t find a stop or service close to my home?
You can use public transport into Wigan and then the 352 service to Orrell Rail Station. Or take a train either to Wigan or direct to Orrell Rail Station. We are then just a short walk up the hill.
352 | Bee Network | Powered by TfGM
What if I miss my bus or train or my train is cancelled?
Our advice to any students who may have missed their bus or train to or from college, or a train is cancelled, is to use public transport into Wigan town centre. This is the main connection point for bus services and the Rail Stations are also within walking distance of the Bus Station. The Arriva 352 runs very regularly up to Orrel Rail Station.
352 | Bee Network | Powered by TfGM
Is there any financial help towards my travel?
Students may be able to get some financial support by means of a Bursary towards the cost of the private coaches. Parents/Carers can only apply for a bursary AFTER enrolment. And students moving into their final year at College, must renew their bursary.
Where can I find more help?
Please note that our phone lines are very busy, especially at the start of term, therefore we ask that all enquiries are made via email as follows: -
Private coach or bus enquiries – Transport@Winstanley.ac.uk
Bursary enquiries – Bursary@Winstanley.ac.uk
Student Services – Student.Services@Winstanley.ac.uk
Payment Enquiries - Direct Debit – Finance@Winstanley.ac.uk
Private Coach Routes
The cost of a private coach pass for the 2025–2026 academic year is £599. Every effort is made to keep this as low as possible while ensuring safe and convenient travel to and from College. Full details of the payment process are included in the Transport Reservation Form, which is usually emailed to parents/carers after May half term in preparation for the following August/September. This form must be completed to reserve a seat on a private coach, seats are allocated on a first come, first served bases and once coaches are full, no additional coaches will be added, and students will need to explore alternative travel options.
Payment can be made in full via ParentPay or a first instalment via ParentPay and the remaining instalments via bank Direct Debit. Alternatively, parents/carers can indicate on the form if they are applying for or renewing a bursary.
Seats may be available part-way through the year, depending on capacity, so if your circumstances change, it's always worth checking with us about using the private coach service.
These services are contracted by TfGM or contracted as part of the Bee Network.
The College has no control or influence over these bus services. Bus timetables and routes are set by TfGM and any queries or concerns can be raised directly with them here Help and contact us | Bee Network | Powered by TfGM
Greater
Manchester Our Pass
Our Pass is for students aged 16 – 18 who live in Greater Manchester. The travel pass can be used for up to two years, starting from 1 September after their 16th birthday, until 31 August after their 18th birthday (or until their 18th birthday, if this is 31 August).
For a one-off £10 fee, students can travel on most local buses, any day of the week, for free. To apply for Our Pass please visit Get Our Pass - Our Pass. If you are unsure your home postcode falls within the Greater Manchester area you can check this by visiting Find your local council - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)
Students living outside the Greater Manchester Area
If the student lives outside the Greater Manchester area and is taking public transport or linking with one of our TfGM/Bee Network services that come straight to campus, they’ll need to check with their local bus provider for relevant student passes and fares.
You can download the Bee Network app for live departure times for bus, tram and train.
Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM) Bus routes
520 – Padgate, Warrington & Croft
Operated by: Grayway Coaches (01942-243165)
Starts at Padgate Station, Millhouse Pub Houghtons Green, Enfield Park Rd, left onto Crab Lane. Left in Locking Stumps, right into Lords Lane. Turn right into Glover Rd A574 towards Oakwood. Ordance Ave, Admirals Rd, Ordance Ave (Spar Bus Stop), clockwise around Gorse Covert, Daten Avenue, Warrington Rd, Risley, Cross Lane, New Lane Croft, Heath Lane, Kenyon Lane, East Lancs, Church Rd.
0720 Padgate Station (layby)
0730 Millhouse Pub
0733 Crab Lane 0738 Glover Rd (1st bus stop from Lords Lane) Turf and Feather Pub 0744 Admirals Road Opposite Quaterdeck Pub
521A – Warrington, Winwick & Newton Train Station
Operated by: Grayway Coaches (01942-243165)
Warrington Central Station, Tankersley Grove, Boston Blvd (anti clockwise), Kingsdale Rd, Westbrook Way, Westbrook Cres, Callands, then A574 towards Winwick Rd. Left onto Winwick Rd, then Parkside and opposite Newton Station then to college. This bus does NOT stop on Vista Road.
0715 Warrington Central Station (Winwick St, facing Halliwell Jones)
0720 Cromwell Ave (St. Gregory’s), then left onto Canons Rd
0730 Tankersley Grove
0735 Boston Blvd – Chapelford Farm
0740 Kingsdale Rd (Duck Pond)
0745 Westbrook Cres (Asda)
0750 Callands Rd (round and back onto Cromwell Rd)
0755 Winnick Rd/Quay Pub
0805 Winwick Church
0807 Parkside, then down Newton Road
0809 Main Road opposite Newton Train Station
0838 Winstanley College 1615
521B – Haydock
Operated by: Grayway Coaches (01942-243165)
Crow Lane East (B5209), Clipsley Ln, Vicarage Rd (A 58) right onto Stanley Bank Way over to Garswood Gate farm then to College.
0812 Crow Lane East (use 523B for Crow Ln West)
0825 Clipsley Ln, Haydock
0828 Clipsley Ln, Huntsman Pub, then to Garswood Gate Farm
0840 Winstanley College
1615 BAY 3 – Return Journey
523A – Culcheth
Grayway Coaches (01942-243165)
Departs Lately Common bus stop (Bents Garden Centre) (A574) Warrington Rd, Glazebury towards Culcheth. Common Lane, Culcheth, Kenyon Rd,
0750 Lately Common Bus Stop (Bents Garden Centre facing Culcheth)
0756 Mee Brow Bus Stop
0758 Culcheth Library
0801 Common Ln, Wilton Ln
0805 Kenyon Rd
0850 Winstanley College
1610 BAY 3 – Return Journey
523B – Newton-Le-Willows
Grayway Coaches (01942-243165)
Southworth Rd, Newton, (for High St and Crow Ln East use 521B), Crow Ln West, Vista Rd, Penny Ln, Peile Rd to College
0815 Southworth Rd (Heath Lane stop) Newton Station
0816 High Street, Newton-le-Willows, then Crow Lane West
0820 Vista Rd, then left onto Penny Lane
0822 Penny Lane
0825 Piele Rd, English Martyrs Catholic Primary School, then out onto the Lancs and straight to college no more stops.
0850 Winstanley College
1610 BAY 3 – Return Journey
618 – Ainsdale & Southport
Operated by: Grayway Coaches (01942-243165)
Toby Carvery Liverpool Rd Ainsdale, down Liverpool Rd/A565 right onto Carr Ln. Through the roundabout onto Guildford Rd towards Kew Rd. Then Cemetery Rd, Scarisbrick New Rd at the junc. of Pilkington rd. Continues to KGV College. Continue and turn left at roundabout to Bescar Brow Ln. then right onto Hall Ln, continue to Heaton’s Bridge Rd. Straight over the rou ndabout to Pippin St along Liverpool Rd South then left at Trevor Rd.
0725 Toby Carvery Ainsdale
0731 Carr Lane
0735 Kew Rd, jct. of Guildford Rd by Bedford Pk
0737 Cemetery Rd
0740 Scarisbrick New Rd
0800 Trevor Rd, Burscough
0850 Winstanley College
1610 BAY 3 – Return Journey
619 – Burscough & Parbold
Operated by: Grayway Coaches (01942-243165)
Delph Drive, Ring O’Bells, Lowry Hill Ln Newburgh, Course Ln, Ash Brow, Alder Ln, Mill Ln Parbold. Station Rd, The Common (B5426) Lancaster Ln, Parbold Hill, Sparrow Hill, Hall Lane, Appley Bridge South, Bank Brow, Roby Mill, College Rd, Parliament St
0800 Delph Drive
0802 Ring O’ Bells
0804 Newburgh Village – Lowry Hill Lane
0809 Parbold Train Station
0816 Dangerous Corner, Pesto
0818 Appley Bridge Train Station
0828 Roby Mill
0835 Upholland, Grove Rd, then onto Winstanley College
1610 BAY 3 – Return Journey
733 – Ormskirk Bus Station
Operated by: Grayway Coaches (01942 -243165)
Ormskirk Bus Station – Stand 4, Ormskirk School Wigan Rd. Crosshall Bros, Wigan Rd, Dicketts Ln, Bluegate Ln, Ormskirk Rd, Railway Rd, Grimshaw Rd, Windmill Rd, Newgate Rd Ormksirk Rd to College.
This service does NOT stop at Skelmersdale War Memorial, use 738
0800 Ormskirk Arts House
0805 Ormksirk School
0807 Westhead Village (Holton Castle Pub)
0810 Wigan Rd (Prince Albert Pub)
0813 Dicketts Ln, (County Florists)
0814 Bluegate Village, Hooters Car Wash
0818 Railway Rd by Exchange Island
0823 Newgate Rd corner of Denholme
0825 Upholland Clinic, Hall Green Surgery
0828 Upholland, Victoria Pub (last pick up point)
0845 Winstanley College
1615 BAY 2 – Return Journey
734 – Aughton
Operated by: Hursts of Wigan (07590 – 498034)
Town Green Ln, Winifred Ln, Northway, Liverpool Rd, Holborn Hill, Aughton St, Park Rd, St.Helens Rd, Moor St to College.
0750 Town green, jct of Whalley Drive
0755 Holborn Hill, Royal Oak
0850 Winstanley College
1615
BAY 2 – Return Journey
735 - Maghull
Operated by: Furlongs Travel (0151 – 546 – 5658)
Depart Maghull Train Stn. And then heads towards Maghull Square, then proceeds to Eastway, then Deyes Lane, make way to college.
0745 Maghull Train Stn.
0750 Maghull Square
0752 Eastway, 1st Bus Stop facing Dental Surgery
0754 Deyes Lane, Premier Fish bar, shops
0757 Deyes Lane, bus stop corner of Moss Lane
0850 Winstanley College
1610 Bay 1 – Return Journey
736 - Kirkby
Operated by: Furlongs Travel (0151 -546 -5658)
Departs Bank Lane, County Rd, Hall Ln, Bewley Drive and Moorgate Rd then make way to College.
0750 Bank Ln, corner of Melrose Rd/Melling Mount
0752 County Rd, outside St. Peter’s and Pauls Church, Tower Hill
0754 County Rd, bus stop corner of St. Kevin’s Drive
0756 Hall Ln, Kirkby, bus stop McDonalds, then stop facing Centre 63
0759 Kirkby Row bus stop near train station
0803 Bewley Drive, bus stop facing Falcon
0804 Bewley Drive, bus stop facing Bracknell Ave
0806 Bewley Drive, bus stop St. Joseph’s Church
0808 Moorgate Rd, bus stop facing Deacon Park
0810 South Boundary Rd, Admin bus terminal facing QVC, then direct to College
1610 BAY 1 - Return Journey
738 - Skelmersdale
Operated by: Hursts of Wigan (07590 – 498034)
Skelmersdale War Memorial, Railway Road, Westgate, High Street, Church Road, School Lane (A577)
Neverstitch Road, Houghtons Road, Ashurst Road, Ashmead Rd, Ashurst Rd (The Loop), Birch Green Road, Northway, The Concourse, Southway (B5312) Gillibrands Road, Digmoor Road, Tanhouse Road Labour Club (B5312), Grimshaw Road, Tanhouse Road Health Centre. Grimshaw Lane, Windmill Road (A577) Newgate Road, Ormskirk Rd, Dingle Road, Grove Road, Parliament Street Upholland, Church Street, Cinnamon Brow, Tontine Road, Sefton Road, Church Road, Winstanley Road – make way to College.
0750 Skelmersdale War Memorial
0753 High Street
0758 School Lane
0807 Ashurst Toby Inn, then Ashmead Rd and back to Ashurst Rd (The Loop)
0812 Birch Green, Silver Birch
0816 Skelmersdale – Concourse
0820 Digmoor, Digmoor Road
0823 Upholland Labour Club, Tanhouse
0825 Tanhouse Health Centre
0836 Up Holland, Ormskirk Road
0850 Winstanley College
1615 BAY 3 – Return Journey
800A – Boothstown/Worsley
Operated by Grayway Coaches (01942 – 243165)
Departs jct of Longwall Avenue continue onto Ellenbrook Rd. Turn right onto Leigh Rd (A572) and continue along Simpson Rd, keep right onto Mosley Common Rd. Go straight over the East Lancs Rd and continue along Mosley Common Rd. Turn onto Sale Lane. Make way to College.
DIRECT ROUTE TO COLLEGE - NO STOPS.
If this service reaches capacity when issuing passes, remaining students will be automatically allocated to the 800C.
0745 Longwall Avenue/Newearth Road 1615 BAY 3 - Return Journey
800B – Astley/Tyldesley
Operated by Grayway Coaches
Departs St. John Mosley Common Sch, A577 Mosley Common Rd, then onto Sale Lane. Then Manchester Road then left onto Elliot Street Tyldesley. Turn left onto Astley Street and continue down to the bottom of Princess Avenue. The last pick-up point is at the bus stop at the corner of Hough Lane/Manchester Road. This service will then to College.
0730 St. John’s Mosley Common School
0735 Sale Lane – Red Lion Pub
0740 Sale Lane/Hough Lane
0745 Tyldesley, Elliot Street – Town Hall
0746 Astley Street
0850 Winstanley College 1615 BAY 3 – Return Journey
800C – Ellenbrook/Princess Ave/Bulls Head
Operated by Grayway Coaches
Departs Ellenbrook Rd. Turn right onto Leigh Rd (A572) and continue along Simpson Rd, keep right onto Mosley Common Rd. Go straight over the East Lancs Rd and continue along Mosley Common Rd. Turn onto Sale Lane. Make way to College.
0725 Longwall Avenue/Newearth Rd then to Ellenbrook Rd
0732 Leigh Rd/Simpson Rd
0745 Princess Avenue
0750 Astley Straits stop – outside the Bulls Head (return journey home goes up to Hough Lane, Church Road due to the one-way system to get to Princess Avenue) 1615 BAY 3 – Return Journey