Get involved in Walk to School Week

Walk to School Week will once again be launching next month to encourage pupils and grown-ups around the UK to unite for one week of walking to school.

The annual campaign led by Living Streets will take place between Monday 5 October to Friday 9 October.

The council and its regeneration partner, ENGIE, are once again supporting the campaign locally and encouraging all schools and nurseries to take part in the campaign and walk, scoot or even cycle to school.

As part of the support locally, the partnership is also offering £1,000 worth of vouchers for the school or nursery with the highest percentage of pupils travelling sustainably during the week, as well as £250 worth of vouchers for the school or nursery that comes second and third.

Councillor Stewart Swinburn, portfolio holder for environment and transport, said: “Walking, scooting or cycling during Walk to School Week could see your school or nursery walk away with £1,000 of vouchers to benefit all of the pupils.

“I would encourage parents to support our ambitions of seeing the majority of schools and nurseries taking part and encourage them to do so with us. Our transport officers at ENGIE have recently contacted all schools and nurseries in the area offering them all the resources they need to take part.

“Travelling sustainably to school or nursery has numerous health and environmental benefits for both children and parents. We’re keen to encourage you to see for yourself these benefits and take part during the week.”

Please note, pupils should not gather or walk in groups of more than six people and should maintain social distancing with others.

More information about Walk to School Week is available at www.livingstreets.org.uk/walk-to-school.

Walking to school dos and don’ts

• Check your child’s footwear is comfortable and appropriate for walking
• Make sure your child’s school bag isn’t too heavy- this could lead to back problems and poor posture
• If you live far away from the school, try combining alternative methods of transport with walking part way
• Make walking fun and enjoyable – chat about local surroundings and encourage your child to talk about their school day
• It is up to the parent/carer to decide when your child is old enough to walk to school alone or with friends. Always make sure your child is familiar with the route and keeps in contact with you should they be late home.