Why do schools need a School Travel Plan?
School Travel Plans are an excellent way for schools to get funding to encourage kids to get out of their gas guzzling cars and use a more sustainable form of transport to get to school. Until the end of March 2010 schools that submit a plan can get funding to spend on bike sheds, new pedestrian paths etc. Of course schools can encourage kids to walk and bike without an STP but it is an excellent way of setting targets and really motivating children and teachers to change their habits. One local school I worked with in South London saw a 30% increase in kids walking and a 40% reduction in kids driving in following the implementaton of their STP. Read my book LET ME OUT; How to enjoy the school run to find out more about how they did it.
Travel plans are really important for schools because this is where habits are formed for children that will carry on into later life. Unfortunately it is accepted that we will not be able to keep travelling in the same ways as we are just now, it’s just not sustainable. But happily travel plans have the added benefit of being able to increase pupils health, save parents money and reduce the stress associated with driving.
