Three Hemel Hempstead schools awarded for swapping the school run for active fun

 

Three primary schools in Hemel Hempstead are walking tall after receiving Modeshift STARS national awards for their active and eco-friendly travel plans.

 

Galley Hill Primary School, Micklem Primary School and Leverstock Green CoE Primary School have all been working with Hertfordshire County to encourage walking and cycling to school. All three schools have been encouraging their pupils and families to be more active every day by swapping the car for a healthier and more environmentally friendly school run.

 

Modeshift STARS is the national schools awards scheme which recognises schools demonstrating a healthy track record by supporting cycling, walking and other forms of sustainable travel.

 

Galley Hill Primary School received bronze accreditation for increasing its levels of sustainable and active travel and is now embarking on its next journey to achieve a silver award.

 

Micklem Primary School and Leverstock Green C of E Primary School pulled out all of the stops to reach silver level for the first time by vastly increasing the numbers of pupils walking, cycling or scootering to school. Both schools dramatically reduced the amount of car travel to and from school.

 

Hertfordshire County Council’s Assistant Director for Transport, Waste and Environmental Management, Simon Aries said: “Travelling actively to school improves the physical, social, emotional and mental health and wellbeing of children, enhancing the whole school community.

 

“It really does make a difference as children become healthier and more prepared for learning if they have some fresh air and exercise before and after the school day.

“It also brings the added benefits of reducing air pollution levels around schools, creating a healthier atmosphere for everybody.”

 

All three schools have School Crossing Patrols who encourage children to cross with them every day, helping to develop good road safety skills while helping the environment by reducing the need for unnecessary car journeys. 

 

Hertfordshire County Council works with schools across the county on a range of road safety and sustainable travel initiatives. You can find out more through activeandsafertravel@hertfordshire.gov.uk