Why Walk to School?
As a school, it’s a great way to be green and reach your healthy and eco-school initiatives and reach your travel plan targets. It also reduces congestion and reduces the likelihood of accidents around the school gates and creates key opportunities to socialise and enjoy the local environment. It sends out a strong message to current and prospective parents, that you care about your pupils’ health, the environment and the wider community.
Eco schools and healthy schoolsFor pupils, it’s a fun and easy way to fit in more exercise and make sure they are getting the recommended 60 minutes per day. Also, 9 out of 10 teachers consider that the walk to school makes children brighter, more alert and ready for the first class of the day (DfT, 2001).
Here is more information about the newly introduced Enhanced Healthy Schools Status:
Walking to school is well worth it! Below are just some of the reasons:
S = SAFETY TRAINING
Walking regularly with a child from a young age enables them to develop life skills; preparing children with road safety and personal awareness skills.
C = CONGESTION reduction
Fewer cars on our roads is good for the environment and local communities; fewer cars at the school gate can make it safer for pupils making their way to and from school.
H = HEALTH benefits
Walking to and from school allows adults and children to incorporate physical activity into their daily routines.
O = ON the ball at school
Pupils who walk to school arrive wide awake and are therefore more prepared for the school day ahead.
O = OUR fun and friendship
Friends and family can walk to and from school together and enjoy some quality time.
L = LEARNING for life
Walking regularly enables a child to become more familiar with their surroundings and provides them with the opportunity to learn about the weather and changing seasons first hand.
