Travel is the fourth theme of the Green-Schools programme. The Travel theme is funded by the Department of Transport, Tourism and Sport and supported by the National Transport Authority.
As part of their Action Plan, participating schools set their own Travel targets, with the ultimate aim of increasing the number of pupils walking, cycling, park 'n' stride, carpooling or using public transport, which will ease congestion by reducing the number of private cars arriving at the school gates.
By promoting sustainable transport modes (walking, cycling, car pooling or public transport), the schools will also improve pupils' safety, health and fitness. The journey to school is an ideal way for children to take part in regular physical activity, to interact with their peers, and to develop the road sense children need as pedestrians and cyclists. Alternative modes of transport also improve children's alertness. The schools will also lessen their overall impact on the environment, by reducing emissions and pollution.
Green-Schools Travel was rolled out nationally in September 2008 after a very successful pilot programme in the Greater Dublin Area. Since then we have been working with over 850 schools around the country to promote sustainable travel to school. Participating schools have achieved a 27% reduction in car journeys to school between 2008 – 2010 through the promotion of WOW days, COW days and other fun & inclusive activities. Green-Schools have dedicated Travel Education Officers throughout the country who are working closely with schools to support them through the 7-step process. The Travel theme is now acknowledged as a ‘best practice’ model for sustainable school travel within the international FEE network. If you want to find out more about the programme contact the Green-Schools Travel team on: 01 4002222