Gear up for fun and active travel to school
As we get ready for the new school year, here’s a cool idea: why not choose active travel as your way to get there? Active travel means swapping car journeys for walking, cycling, scooting, or even skateboards or rollerblades to get around. If that's not possible, park further away and walk part of the journey or carpool with neighbours and walk the last bit together. Catching a bus or train works too. Active travel not only adds physical activity to your day, keeping your body and heart strong, but also boosts your mood, making you feel happier and less stressed. Plus, it's better for the planet! Active travel helps keep the air cleaner, protects wildlife, and makes your neighbourhood safer with fewer cars around schools.
Here are some tips and resources to make sure your journey to school is both fun and safe.
Safety first
- Wear a helmet: always wear a helmet when cycling to protect your head.
- Be bright: wear bright and reflective clothing to be seen, especially if it’s dark, foggy, or rainy.
- Follow traffic rules: obey all traffic signs and signals and use pedestrian crossings and bike lanes.
- Ride with care: if riding a bike or scooter on the road, ride in the same direction as traffic and follow the rules of the road.
- Signal your turns: use hand signals to show which way you’re going when cycling or scooting.
- Stay on the right paths: when walking, use the pavement whenever possible. When cycling or scooting, use cycle lanes.
- Look around: always look both ways before crossing the road and listen for cars.
- Put your devices in your pocket: don’t use your phone or headphones when walking or biking, so you can hear and see everything around you.
- Stay together: when walking with friends or family, stay together and look out for each other.
- Practice makes perfect: practice riding your bike or scooter in a safe place, like a park or empty car park, before going on busy streets.
Be prepared
Use a backpack with compartments to keep your things organised and easy to find.
Put things you might need quickly, like your water, snacks and phone, in easy-to-reach pockets. Only take what you need to avoid extra weight that can make walking or riding harder. Make sure the weight in your backpack is balanced so it doesn't pull you to one side.
Take a water bottle to stay hydrated and pack healthy snacks like fruit, nuts, or granola bars for energy.
Pack plasters, antiseptic wipes, and any personal medication you might need. It's always good to be prepared for small injuries.
A lightweight, packable rain jacket is essential. Weather can change quickly, and it's good to be prepared.
Check your bicycle or scooter is in working order before you leave. It’s also a good idea to have a small bike repair tool in your bag. It will be very helpful if something on your bike needs a quick fix.
Make sure your phone is charged. It's important to have a way to contact someone if you need help. Here are some links to find recommended safe routes and crossings in Wokingham.
Ways to get to your school
Getting to school can be loads of fun when you walk, cycle, or scoot! It’s a great way to start your day, get some exercise, and enjoy the fresh air.
Ready to start your adventure? Head over to the My Journey webpage for guides to help you plan your trip and find the best routes to get to your primary school in Wokingham Borough.
Active travel is an excellent way to stay healthy, save money, and protect the environment. By following these tips and being prepared, you can make your journey to school enjoyable and safe.
Don't miss out on our upcoming active travel events and workshops. Visit the My Journey Wokingham events page for details.
Start your school year with a healthy, fun, and eco-friendly journey!