Transport

Car use is increasing, and this has serious effects on our:

Environment – Car emissions contribute to climate change and air pollution.
Health – Air pollution increases asthma, especially in cities. Inactive lifestyles linked to car use raise risks of obesity, heart disease, and poor mental well-being.
Safety – Traffic congestion makes roads dangerous, especially around schools.

Benefits of Active Travel

Walking, cycling, or scooting to school increases daily physical activity.
Helps children build independence, make friends, and develop road safety awareness.
Active children are more alert and focused in class.
81% of pupils say they want to travel actively—currently 55% do, up from 40% in 3 years (Sustrans data).

What Is Sustainable Transport?

Any travel method that reduces car use and pollution, including:

Walking
Cycling
Scooters
Bus or train travel
Car-sharing

What Can Schools Do?

Create a School Travel Plan: A plan with actions to support walking, cycling, or shared transport.
Run awareness campaigns: Promote Walk to School days, WOW (Walk on Wednesdays), cycle training, and Bike Week.
Tailor your approach: Every school has unique challenges and solutions. Involve pupils, staff, and parents.

Curriculum Links

This topic fits into:

Geography, Science, Maths, ICT, Design & Technology, Art, Literacy, and Numeracy.
Includes real-world learning about sustainability, health, and safety.

Resources Available

Eco-Schools offers free PowerPoints and activities for all age groups (Foundation to KS5).
Contact eco-schools@keepnorthernirelandbeautiful.org to register for the Travel Challenge or access resources.

More Info

Check out Case Studies to see how other schools improved transport.
The Partners section also provides details of organisations that will be able to offer your school help on transport issues.