Schools across the UK are being encouraged to participate in this year’s Bike to School Week – which takes place between 28 September and 2 October.
Organised by Sustrans in partnership with the Bikeability Trust, Bike to School Week celebrates cycling to school and the benefits of travelling actively for children.
This year’s event takes place amid the Covid-19 pandemic – at a time when local authorities should work with schools to make walking, cycling and scooting ‘the easiest and most appealing option for families’.
Recently released guidance from the Department for Education shows that at least 50% of journeys to school (of two miles or less) need to be walked and cycled in order to allow space for those on public transport who need to travel further.
To support schools throughout Bike to School Week, a range of resources have been created, including:
- school posters
- a 5-day pack of daily activities to be completed in class
- and a video guide with simple practices to check your bike is safe to ride.
These activities aim to inspire pupils to think about their journeys to school, understand the benefits of active travel, and consider the causes and effects of air pollution, as they return to school life.
Xavier Brice, CEO at Sustrans said: “We’re delighted to be able to run Bike to School Week again this year, after what has been a time of great uncertainty for all families across the country.
“And now, more than ever, it is vital that as many pupils as possible are able to cycle to school through the creation of dedicated routes, and removing cars from the school gates.
“As we begin to emerge from the Covid-19 crisis, and families are looking for physically distanced ways to move around, it is essential steps are taken to ensure the school run is as safe and healthy as possible for everyone.
“We are therefore calling on local authorities across the UK to work to help schools and families make active travel the safest and most appealing option.
“And for schools to get involved in the Bike to School Week when it launches in September.”
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