Pupils across Medway are being encouraged to use active travel to get to school as part of International Walk to School month this October.
We will be running competitions for both primary schools, Little Trekkers, and secondary schools, Striders with prizes up for grabs.
Running from Monday, 7 October to Friday, 18 October, schools taking part will monitor how many of their pupils travelled to school by walking, cycling, using a wheelchair, scooting or park and stride (walking the last 10 minutes of the journey).
For both categories, the school which completes the highest number of active travel journeys will receive a Halfords voucher worth £500, second place will receive a £300 voucher and third place will receive a £200 voucher.
This year, we will also have a new prize of a £100 Halfords voucher for the most improved school from each category.
The winning schools will also receive a personalised framed certificate from us, and every school that takes part will receive an e-certificate in recognition of their support of active travel.
Big benefits for everyone
Cllr Simon Curry, Medway Council’s Portfolio Holder Climate Change and Strategic Regeneration, said: “We always look to encourage people to use active travel wherever possible – so I think it’s great we are bringing back both of these brilliant competitions for schools across Medway. There are big benefits for everyone when it comes to people choosing active travel over their car – we see less congestion on our roads, there’s an environmental benefit and it helps people be even more active.”
Our Sustainable Transport Team focuses on road safety education, public transport and active travel initiatives. The team encourage a number of active travel initiatives throughout the year, including the Living Streets WOW campaign, Bikeability, Modeshift STARS and the Walkin’ N Wheelin’ challenge.
Many schools organise a walking bus, creating a safe and fun way to walk to school with other children and parents. If you are interested in setting up a walking bus at your school, you can find out more information on our website, including our recently launched free resource pack.
Our road safety officers also visit schools throughout the year to teach children about the importance of road safety and valuable lessons about crossing the road, independent travel and more.