Active travel award for Sitwell Infant School where car use has dropped by 40 per cent

PUPILS at a star school which has slashed car use and seen a surge in kids walking to class celebrated their success by giving their trusty transport a makeover.

Sitwell Infant School, where kids held a Be Bright, Be Seen Day involving decorating their scooters, has been recognised as the Modeshift STARS Primary School of the Region for 2020/21 thanks to its soaring rates of sustainable travel.

The school has been part of the Modeshift STARS project STARS stands for Sustainable Travel Accreditation and Recognition Scheme \_ since 2016 and has worked hard to encourage walking, cycling and scooting through various activities.

Car usage has decreased by 40 per cent and active travel has become embedded in the school’s ethos, said Rotherham active travel officer Emily Sykes.

“Cycling promotion has been a key focus of the school, including a ‘Wheelie Wednesday’ campaign inviting pupils to ride to school, Dr Bike Workshops, Bike Blinging sessions, Bikers’ Breakfasts and Learn to Ride classes.

“The school installed a new cycle shelter to ensure bikes are stored safely, encouraging even more pupils to ride to school each day.

“A five-minute walking zone is established around the school to inspire pupils and parents to ‘park and stride’, and many members of the school community have worked hard to promote safe parking around the school gates.

“The school also joins in annual events such as the Sustrans Big Walk and Wheel and Living Streets WOW travel tracker, encouraging as many pupils to get involved as possible.”