Sustainable Transport

Choosing a more sustainable way to get to and from school is not only environmentally friendly but also promotes good physical and mental health. It is encouraged by the NHS that children of primary school age should carry out around 60 minutes of moderately intensive activity a day, this can include walking, cycling and scooting. It is also proven that good physical health can often lead to good mental health. Additionally walking, cycling or scooting can help children develop road safety skills which will keep them safe as they grow more independent.

What are we doing already?

Travel Weeks: We are active participators of 'Walk and Wheel to School Week' amongst others, which set the children and their parents the challenge of walking or wheeling to school as many times as possible during the week. Last year during walk and wheel to school week, roughly 64% of our pupils completed the 5 day walk/wheel challenge which is fantastic! We also got sent some great pics of children enjoying their sustainable journey to school!

Travel plan: Our travel plan is designed to encourage our pupils and staff to walk or wheel to school in line with our sustainability targets but also to keep us healthy! Our travel policy details what we expect of parents and what we expect of pupils. Read the policy here. Below is a visual representation of our travel plan.

Y5/Y6 Bikeability: Learning practical skills from professional instructors and understanding how to cycle on today’s roads. Qualitas are holding their 'Wheels Days' on Tuesday 20th and Thursday 22nd May 2025

EYFS Balance Bikes: Creates the opportunity for children to master the key aspects of static and dynamic balance to be able to ride a bike without stabilisers. Qualitas are holding their 'Wheels Days' on Tuesday 20th and Thursday 22nd May 2025

Coach sharing with Christ Church: When a class is attending a trip which Christ Church CofE Primary School are also attending, we share a coach with them where possible to ensure that there are less vehicles on the road 

What else can we do?

Travel survey: As part of the 'Count Your Carbon' review, we will carry out a survey for students and staff regarding their travel habits, this will help us get a better picture of travel in our school.

Infrastructure improvements: We can introduce a designated drop off zone away from the school entrance to encourage more people to walk (even if just a little bit) to school and to also reduce congestion and maintain safety.

Raise awareness of air quality: We can encourage children to discuss the impact of traffic on local air pollution and carry out air quality controlling.

Group walks: We can organise themed group walks in the local area to encourage children to love walking.

What can you do at home?

• Walk, bike or use public transport where possible
• Consider car-sharing with a friend, neighbour or colleague
• Plan your route ensuring that it is safe to walk or ride before setting off
• Consider buying an electric car which is more environmentally friendly
• Educate yourself on the use of e-scooters and remember that it is illegal to use one in public areas