With Active Travel Month underway, Bethany Wiseman, our senior sustainable travel officer is sharing all the ways for schools, pupils, parents and staff across Leicestershire to get involved.
Cycle to school week
Cycle to school week is happening from Monday 5 October to Friday 9 October and with the school run often being one of the busiest times of the day, it’s a great opportunity to build healthy habits into everyday routines.
Why not organise a bike breakfast, celebrate pupils who cycle to school, or encourage families to give cycling a try during the week? Remember to carry out a quick bike safety check before setting off and ensure bikes are roadworthy and ready to ride.
Earn rewards with BetterPoints
BetterPoints is a rewards-based app that encourages people to choose active and sustainable ways to travel. By walking, wheeling, cycling or using public transport, participants can earn points which can be exchanged for rewards.
It's a fun and easy way to make your everyday journeys count, while helping to improve health and reduce traffic congestion.
Apply for an Active Travel school grant
Schools can apply for up to £1,000 through our Active Travel School Grants programme to fund projects and activities that encourage active and sustainable travel.
Funding can be used for a wide range of initiatives, including:
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Bicycle repair workshops
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Bicycle maintenance equipment
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Equipment for a walking bus
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Walking, cycling or scooting challenges and reward schemes, such as the WOW Travel Tracker
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Bikes and scooters
Try Park and Stride
Another simple way to get involved in active travel is through our Park and Stride scheme.
Park and Stride encourages families to park a short distance away from school and walk the final part of their journey. This small change can make a big difference by:
- Reducing congestion around school gates
- Improving safety for pupils arriving at school
- Helping children incorporate physical activity into their daily routine
If your school would like support exploring a Park and Stride scheme, please get in touch with the Choose How You Move team at choosehowyoumove@leics.gov.uk.
Every journey counts
Active Travel month is a great opportunity to try something new and get out and about this autumn.
For more information, visit our dedicated Active Travel Month page on Choose How You Move.