Next week we will taking part in the Sustrans Big Walk and Wheel 2022 (the new name for Big Pedal), the UK’s largest inter-school cycling, walking, wheeling and scooting challenge. The challenge runs from 21 March to 1 April. It’s free and we would love everyone to be involved.

What do you need to do?

Encourage your child(ren) to walk, use a wheelchair, scoot or cycle to school on as many days as possible during the event. Children will be able to record their journeys, each day, in their classrooms.

Including everyone

We know that some people come on the school bus, which makes it a little difficult to walk, but if you go for a walk at the weekend then you can tell your teacher about that and tick off some boxes on the class chart. We also realise that some people live too far away to walk or scoot but don’t forget that you are able to park your car for free, before and after school, in the Council car park at the top of De Moulem Road – you can then walk or scoot through Day’s Park.

Why we are taking part

Sustrans Big Walk and Wheel is a great way to build physical activity in children’s daily routine which is important for their physical health and mental wellbeing.

Active school runs also help to reduce congestion and air pollution outside the school gate. A 2021 YouGov study showed nearly half of UK children worry about air pollution near their school. And that children thought active travel was the best away to bring down these pollution levels.

Useful resources

To help you prepare, Sustrans has developed a handy free guide packed with advice, games and challenges to help you have hassle-free cycle, walk or scoot to school.

Download your free family guide using this link: https://www.sustrans.org.uk/sign-up-to-receive-your-free-family-guide/

Enjoy the challenge!