Lyde Green Community School

Active Travel

At Lyde Green Community School, we actively promote walking, cycling, and other forms of active travel. These choices benefit our students, our community, and our planet.

Why We Promote Active Travel

  • Healthier Students
    Walking and cycling help students stay fit and healthy. Research shows that regular physical activity improves concentration, boosts academic performance, and supports mental wellbeing.
  • Cleaner Air & Safer Streets
    Fewer cars on the road mean safer journeys for pedestrians and cyclists, less congestion, and cleaner air around our school. One in four cars on the road during peak times are on the school run—reducing this helps everyone.
  • Tackling Climate Change
    Road transport accounts for around 20% of the UK’s greenhouse gas emissions. Choosing active travel helps cut pollution and contributes to a more sustainable future.
  • Reducing Air Pollution
    Air pollution causes around 64,000 deaths annually in the UK and reduces average life expectancy by 1.5 years. It’s linked to respiratory and cardiovascular diseases, including heart failure.
  • Combating Childhood Obesity
    Over a third of children leave primary school overweight or obese. Active travel helps build lifelong healthy habits and reduces the risk of serious health conditions in adulthood.
  • Boosting Daily Activity
    Students aged 13–16 are the least likely to be physically active. Travelling to and from school can contribute up to half of their recommended daily activity.

Current Travel Stats

  • Only 34% of secondary school students walk to school.
  • Just 3% cycle.
    We want to change that.

Benefits of Active Travel

  • Cleaner air around the school gates
  • Lower carbon emissions
  • Improved physical and mental health
  • Better concentration and academic performance
  • Greater independence for students
  • Reduced traffic congestion
  • Improved road safety
  • Cost savings on fuel and transport
  • Faster journeys than sitting in traffic

Common Barriers – and How to Overcome Them

“I live too far away”
Try Park & Stride – get dropped off 5–10 minutes from school and walk the rest. Or Park &
Pedal and cycle part of the way. Even getting off the bus a few stops early helps.
“Bad weather”
Pack a waterproof, umbrella, scarf, and hat. Be prepared and stay comfortable.
“I’m worried about safety”
Walk with a friend or group. If bullying is a concern, speak to a member of staff. Everyone deserves to feel safe.
“I have too much to carry”
Use a backpack or bike panniers. Consider digital alternatives to heavy folders and store PE kits in lockers.
“Busy roads”
Use quieter routes and traffic-free paths. Tools like OpenStreetMap and Google Maps can help you plan a safer journey.
“I’m not sure my bike is safe”
Do regular checks. Try the Sustrans M Check – a quick and easy way to make sure your bike is road-ready. Watch the 3-minute video.
“I’m not confident cycling”
Check out Bikeability – a training programme that builds cycling skills and confidence.

Top 10 Tips for Getting Started on Two Wheels

  1. Plan your route using cycle paths and quieter roads
  2. Check your bike before riding (use the M Check!)
  3. Wear visible clothing – brighten up your school bag
  4. Use bike lights – white front, red rear
  5. Dress for the weather – gloves and a lightweight raincoat help
  6. Add mudguards to stay dry
  7. Fit your helmet properly – snug, not tight
  8. Lock your bike securely
  9. Buddy up with a friend for your journey
  10. Remember your Bikeability training – or ask us how to get started

Useful Resources & Further Information

Cycle Route Planning & Leisure Rides

Lyde Green Secondary School Travel Plan including Map

 

 

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