Local Children Go For It in Walk to School Week
‘Go For It’ is an incentive scheme developed by The Highland Council’s Road Safety Unit to encourage pupils to walk to and from school.
The aim of ‘Go For It’ is to help reduce the number of car trips made to school, reduce congestion, promote healthier and more active lifestyles, and help children develop important road awareness, by encouraging walking.
Children in Badenoch and Strathspey schools have been issued with a card which is stamped every time they walk to or from school. On completion of the card, the children will receive a reward.
In the Badenoch and Strathspey the scheme is being generously supported by MacDonald Aviemore Highland Resort, who will offer two free swims at the Highland Leisure Arena for every completed card received. Marketing manager Scott Burns-Smith said: “The importance of an active lifestyle is key to the on-going development of today’s younger generation. The “Go for It” scheme is an excellent concept not only in addressing healthier kids but creates awareness on the environment they live in.”
All ten Primary schools in Badenoch and Strathspey have now signed up for the scheme. Highland Council’s School Travel Coordinator, Ailsa Campbell, said: “The number of children walking to school has been declining steadily over the past 20 years. It is important that we re-address this problem and encourage children to take more active travel choices. By rewarding the children with a healthy, yet fun, activity, we hope that more children will see walking to school as a fun alternative to the car.”
For more information on “Go for It”, contact Ailsa Campbell, Highland Councils School Travel Coordinator on 01463 702 673, ailsa.campbell@highland.gov.uk
Each year, there are two national Walk to School focus weeks. In 2006 the first week was from Monday 22nd - Friday 26th May and the second will be Monday 2nd - Friday 6th October. October is also International Walk to School Month - giving children, parents, school teachers and community leaders an opportunity to be part of a global event as they celebrate the many benefits of walking.