Children from Barrow Primary School have been recognised for their efforts in encouraging active travel to school.
A recent study shows that more pupils are now walking and cycling to and from school. Car use has dropped in comparison to previous years and pupils’ awareness of road safety and environmental issues has also improved.
Barrow Primary School is now one of three schools in Suffolk to achieve a Bronze Modeshift STARS award – a national scheme which recognises schools which have demonstrated excellence in supporting cycling, walking and other forms of sustainable travel.
The award scheme encourages schools across England to implement their own travel plans to increase levels of sustainable and active travel in order to improve the health and well-being of children and young people.
The primary school’s journey to achieve the Bronze accreditation began when pupils and teachers decided to implement a Travel Plan to encourage sustainable travel. Following the implementation of the plan, 36% of pupils now usually travel to school by active travel (walk, bike and scooter) with a further 23% using the park and stride option (being driven to a location away from the school and walking the rest of the distance).
The school worked with colleagues from Suffolk County Council and the local community to develop the travel plan.
Councillor Andrew Reid, Suffolk County Council’s Cabinet Member responsible for Highways, Transport and Rural Affairs, said:
“It is fantastic to see the measures that Barrow Primary School has put in place to encourage more parents/carers and children to consider sustainable transport on the school run.
“As more children are aware of the current climate emergency the Modeshift STARS awards are an ideal way for schools, pupils and parents to join forces and reduce the impact of the school run and make active travel an attractive alternative, even if it’s just a few days a week.” “Keep up the good work Barrow Primary School.”
County Councillor Karen Soons for Thingoe South, said:
“I am thrilled that Barrow School has been recognised for their work in encouraging children travel to school in sustainable ways. This will not only benefit the children’s fitness and wellbeing but will benefit Barrow’s environment and air quality.”
For more information about Modeshift STARS please visit modeshiftstars.org
