Pupils set to ‘Walk ‘n’ Talk’ their way to school this May

This May, well over a million pupils in primary schools across the country will be taking part in one of the most important dates in the academic diary: National Walk to School Week 2009 (18 – 22 May).
This year, pupils will be encouraged to ‘Walk ‘n’ Talk’ on their way to school to experience the social aspect that walking together has for individuals and communities. Around half of children currently don’t walk to school regularly, with an enormous 41% being driven to school in cars, despite the fact that the average distance to primary schools remains at around one mile.

Whilst health benefits of walking are becoming increasingly well recognised, the vital social aspect of being out and about each day is often underestimated. The walk to school is an excellent time for parents, carers and children to enjoy quality time together, away from the stresses of the traffic jam and the blaring of the radio. And it’s not only adult-child relationships that feel the benefit: pupils get free time to socialise with their friends, while getting to know their own neighbourhood better – and the school walk can be a great time for parents to catch up on playground gossip, making it a friendly time for all!

National charity Living Streets, who are celebrating their 80th birthday this year, works to create safe, attractive and enjoyable streets around the UK. They run the highly successful Walk to School campaign, which encourages over two million children, parents and teachers to leave their cars at home and walk to school.

Tony Armstrong, Chief Executive of Living Streets said:

“Walking to school is a great way to get some fresh air and some activity into your day. When children are bundled from front door to car door, they miss out on the opportunity to spend some real quality time with their parents or carers, socialising with friends and burning off their excess energy before getting their head in the books.

“We are delighted that Walk to School Week is part of the Change4life movement from the Department of Health and challenge everyone to give walking a go during Walk to School Week. We think you’ll be amazed at how enjoyable a regular walk can be. It’s one of the cheapest, greenest, most enjoyable ways you can spend regular quality time together, and reap health rewards for all the family!”

Published Tuesday 5 May 2009