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Staying safe
Walking and cycling to school helps young people to develop road safety skills and learn how to manage risk gradually, enabling them to grow into healthy, resilient adults. As children gain the skills they need to stay safe, they can develop independence and get about under their own steam, discovering strategies and solutions for themselves.
Safe routes to school
Sustrans supports local authorities in providing suitable routes for children to cycle and walk. Through our Links to Schools project, we have helped to develop routes and installed features including traffic-free paths, safe crossings and traffic-calming measures. Where route improvements are needed, it is best for schools to work with parents and local authorities to develop a School Travel Plan (pdf) to highlight concerns and propose solutions.
Pupil involvement
Pupils need to be involved in all aspects of making the journey to school a safe one. They can survey speeds outside the school, write letters to MPs and parents, engage in road safety activities in the classroom, and design posters and banners reminding pupils how to stay safe. Use Sustrans' online mapping tool to help pupils plan their route to school as part of a geography project.
Top tips for safe school travel
- Organise cycle and pedestrian training in school
- map safe routes to school in geography lessons
- arrange a cycle train or walking bus for younger pupils
- encourage older pupils to 'buddy-up' and travel to school with friends
- buy reflective stickers and badges or hi-visibility vests in bulk from bike shops or road safety departments
- arrange bike maintenance sessions
- remind parents and pupils that bike lights are a legal requirement in dark conditions
- involve parents and pupils in campaigning for lower speed limits and suitable routes for walking and cycling to school.
For more information, read the Staying safe on the school journey (pdf) information sheet.
