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Boss the school run

Why cycle, walk
or wheel to school?

Come on, it's much more fun!

On foot and by bike travel is much more fun for kids. They love being out in the open air, in any weather. Plus you get to spend more quality time with them - a few minutes to talk about your day or to spot things en route. It's much more appealing than sitting in a car in crawling traffic.

Walking, cycling or wheeling is easily the least faff option at pick up and drop off time - you don't need to find somewhere to park your car, you can just cruise right up to the school gates. Plus, on foot and by bike is the most reliable way to travel as it will take you exactly the same time, every time. You'll feel less stressed and it's so much better for your physical and mental health.

And if that’s still not enough, think of how much cleaner the air will be with fewer cars on the road. Pre-pandemic, trips to education generated an estimated 730,000 trips by car per school day. Think of how much clearer the roads would be if more of those journeys were walked or cycled. And how much less hassle it will be for residents and teachers who have to deal with congestion on a daily basis.

Make on foot and by bike travel part of your routine for the school run. You'll be surprised at how good it will make everyone feel.

Here are a few tips so that you can walk, wheel or cycle as part of the school run

Plan your route

Trial run

Keep it up

Champion active travel

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

Support for schools

We have plenty of schemes available to help students, parents and schools to walk, wheel or cycle more in their daily lives.

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