Guidance on walking, wheeling or cycling to school
Here are a few tips so that you can walk, wheel or cycle as part of the school run
Plan your route
Look out for quieter roads and traffic-free paths wherever possible
Download our cycling and walking maps for your district and plot your route
Let TfGM’s journey planner plot the best active travel route for you
Trial run
Once you have planned out the best route, practice the journey together at the weekend when the roads are likely to be quieter
Depending on your child's age you may want to join them. When cycling together on the road, take up the position behind them. Learn how to cycle safely on the road as a group at our Family Cycle Training sessions.
Keep it up
As they build confidence and get older, gradually reduce how far you go together
Encourage your child to cycle or walk with a friend
Download Sustrans’ free family guide for an active school run
Champion active travel
Inspire others to walk, cycle and wheel to school.
Encourage your school to take part in national active travel campaigns such as Living Street’s Walk to School Week, Sustrans’ Big Walk and Wheel, as well as TfGM’s active travel programmes.
Encourage your school to instal the facilities needed to make it easier for everyone to travel actively – like bike and scooter parking. You could even encourage them to trial a School Street.
Are you trying cycling for the first time? If so, there are ways you can prepare
Get equipped!
Got a bike? Follow our M-Check guidance to ensure your bike is fit to ride
Not got a bike and unsure whether to invest? borrow a bike from one of our Bike Libraries to give it a go without the commitment
Make sure you have got bike lights for the darker winter months and a lock for parking. Helmets are recommended but are ultimately personal choice. Don’t forget a coat for the rain!
Develop your cycle skills and confidence
Ask if your school offers Bikeability cycle training or find a Bikeability course near you
Our family cycle confidence training can help you cycle safely as a group on the road
Worried about road safety? Read through Sustrans helpful tips
For more information on cycling for beginners, check out this handy guide from Sustrans