Schools across the county have received top marks for promoting and encouraging pupils to walk, scoot or cycle to school through the Modeshift STARS travel planning scheme that Cambridgeshire County Council is signed up to.
In addition to the 37 schools receiving awards this summer, over 70 schools in Cambridgeshire are signed up to the free national accreditation scheme. Those taking part develop a school travel plan using an online portal to encourage more of their students and staff to use sustainable methods of transport to get to school. Schools receive advice and help from the county’s Road Safety Education team.
In the most recent round of accreditation, participating schools have been recognised for their efforts with the highest awards available. Barnabas Oley CofE Primary in Great Gransden holds the Platinum and is one of just 66 schools across England to reach this level. Godmanchester Community Academy received national Gold, and Hatton Park Primary achieved Silver. Many more schools gained Bronze travel plans this year, reflecting the excellent work done by the dedicated travel champions across the county and the growth of the STARS scheme in Cambridgeshire.
Cllr Alex Beckett, chair of the Highways and Transport Committee said: “I congratulate all the schools that are signed up to this initiative. There has been a fantastic effort by all involved to encourage safe and sustainable travel options. I am delighted that this effort has been recognised with these awards.
“Creating a greener, fairer, and more caring Cambridgeshire is our vision for the county and the STARS initiative shows we are helping people adopt healthier and more sustainable ways of getting to school. Small changes like walking and cycling to school or work instead of using cars and other vehicles can have a big impact on congestion and lead to air quality improvements.
“Becoming more active also gives significant health benefits and I am sure more schools across Cambridgeshire will be inspired by the success achieved here.”
