Primary pupils’ active travel increases
A check on school travel habits shows momentum for walking, cycling or using a scooter among the youngest pupils.
The latest travel audit revealed that those in primary schools achieved the highest levels of active travel since the first survey in June 2020, although these numbers fall off as students get older.
The inclusion of blended travel in the survey is new in 2022 and showed increasing numbers of parents considering this and using park and stride locations, something the Health Improvement Commission active travel officer Alex Costen is promoting within schools.
‘Park and stride is a simple idea for families who live a bit further away, but can still enjoy the benefits of walking to school,’ she said.
‘If families drive, we’d suggest they park a 10-minute walk from school and complete their journey on foot, still giving children a chance to get active, and all the benefits that brings, plus reducing traffic, congestion and road danger around the school.
‘We are currently working with headteachers to help identify park and stride locations near to the schools and think about ways to encourage walking and cycling.’
The school travel audits are conducted each year in May and October by the Commission.
Data is collected by teachers asking children in each class, by a show of hands, how they travelled to and from school over the course of two days.
In October’s survey, 3,981 primary and 762 secondary pupils responded.
Results from secondary schools were limited to La Mare de Carteret, one year group from St Sampson’s, Beaucamps, Les Voies school and Le Murier.
Overall results are comparable to the same time last year, with 33% of secondary school students travelling there by active travel means, and 34% from school.
‘We know it is more of a challenge to keep momentum for walking and cycling going as children enter secondary school, and when many children pass their driving test,’ said Mrs Costen.
‘There are some brilliant role-models out there and we’d like to work with these students to help engage and encourage other students to encourage them to walk or cycle more, even if it is just once or twice a week and to help overcome any potential barriers.’
