The Territory’s kids and families are being encouraged by Transport Canberra to ride, walk, scoot or skate to school this week for Ride Safely to School Week (24-28 October).
Encouraging school communities to take up the challenge, Transport Canberra said the Week was an excellent chance to kick start healthy habits and encourage physical activity into student’s daily journeys to and from school.
“Walking, riding, scooting or skating to school has many advantages for students as it builds up their confidence, independence, and navigational skills,” Transport Canberra said.
“Students who ride or walk to school are also more likely to be alert and ready to learn by the time they arrive to school,” it said.
“Students may choose to ride to school with other students who live in the same area as them, converting their travel time into a social activity.”
For students who live too far from school to walk or ride the whole way, Transport Canberra said “part way is OK too”.
It said that part way points were designated drop-off areas that allowed students to ride or walk within a short distance from their school.
“To increase safety riding to school, students are encouraged to always wear a helmet and if possible, wear a high vis jacket or reflective straps on their bag to increase their visibility,” the Directorate said.
“The Ride Safe to School program provides ACT schools with access to Australian curriculum aligned resources to teach safe cycling, teacher training, student and parental engagement materials to encourage school communities to embrace active travel options.”
Further information on travelling safely to school can be accessed at this PS News link.
