19 primary schools across York are taking part in 2015 Walk to School Week (18 – 22 May) which targets families who normally take the car, and encourages them to consider walking, scooting or cycling to school instead.
Walk to School Week is organised by Living Streets who say that around one million schoolchildren, teachers and parents are expected to participate in the 2015 campaign, which is being held as part of National Walking Month (May 2015).
The Walk to School website includes a range of free resources including a ‘carbon buster calculator’, Walk to School report card and downloadable posters, flyers and web banner.
Christine Packer, school travel advisor at City of York Council, said: “Walk to School Week is a great chance for pupils who might not be currently walking, scooting or cycling to try changing the way in which they travel to school.
“This is a popular campaign in York which brings many benefits including improving the environment and health – children who walk to school are proven to be more alert in lessons. This also helps towards the 60-minutes of recommended daily exercise.”
Jonathan Green, head teacher at Archbishop of York Junior School, said: “We always encourage our pupils to walk and cycle to school, particularly during Walk to School Week because of the benefits to the children.
“Research shows those who cycle or walk to school can demonstrate a measurable increase in concentration that lasts for up to four hours.
“Plus, children feel healthier, they are sharper, more ready to learn and are more likely to arrive at school in a more positive frame of mind.”
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