Shop
School events
Running a special event in school is a fun and effective way of encouraging pupils to walk and cycle. Many schools take part in the national Bike to School and Walk to School weeks but you can run similar events at any other time of the year too.
How do I get started?
Whether you decide to have a special walking or cycling day, week or even month, it is important to plan carefully and get pupils, parents and staff involved from the start. This video, written and directed by pupils from The Bishop Of Llandaff School in Cardiff, is a great starting point for getting pupils involved and excited about walking and cycling to school.
Be sure to read Sustrans' advice for running a cycling or walking event, full of inspiring ideas to get your themed week off with a bang such as:
- bike breakfasts
- walking passports
- cycle trains
- walking buses
- themed fancy dress days
- poster and banner competitions.
Be sure to ask pupils for ideas of activities for the event as they are are bound to be more creative and fun!
Our Guide to planning a school travel event (pdf) contains a week-by-week countdown to make sure you are fully prepared for your big event. Display it in the staffroom to encourage all the staff to get involved.
Every event will be unique but here are a few pearls of wisdom to help you on your way:
Think about timing. Will it conflict with any other events? Are key people available? Is the weather likely to be ok? Can you time the event to celebrate something special such as brand new cycle parking or a new crossing?
Find funding. Approach local businesses to see if they can offer funding or prizes. Supermarkets may help out with ingredients for a bike breakfast and local shops may contribute prizes.
Publicise the event. Shout about your event from the rooftops! Hold a special assembly to get the pupils excited. Include details about the event in your school newsletter and on information boards. Challenge pupils to design posters so staff, parents and the local community know about your event and how to get involved.
Contact the local newspaper. Give the local media details about the event and invite them to attend. Having a photo and a story in the newspaper raises awareness and makes the event even more memorable.
Make a lasting difference. Maintain the excitement for walking and cycling by turning an element of your event into a regular weekly or monthly activity.
