February 26, 2024

March sees the return of our popular Feet First, a five-day challenge which takes place once a term and is open to all primary schools across the county. The Active Travel to School Team is delighted to report a huge increase in numbers this year, with well over 9000 children signed up to take part this term alone.

About Feet First

Feet First encourages families to think about the way they travel to school, with the aim being to swap at least one car journey for a more active mode of travel during the challenge. Whether that’s walking, using a mobility aid or wheelchair, cycling, or scooting is entirely up to you.

Benefits of Active Travel

Travelling actively is an easy way to increase your daily physical activity, it’s good for your mental wellbeing, and helps children to arrive at school alert and ready to learn. Leaving the car behind helps to reduce congestion at the school gates and improves air quality.

Cumbria is a large, rural county and we know that some people live a long way from school, so it’s not always possible for families to travel actively for the whole journey. Those who need to drive can still take part by parking further away from school and walking the last part of their journey, (also known as Park & Stride), or by car sharing with another family. Children who use school transport during the active challenge week will be able to collect stickers as this also helps to reduce individual car use on the school run.

The Spring Challenge is now closed to new entries, but there is still time to sign up for Summer. To find out more or to take part in future challenges contact the Active Travel to School Team on activetravel@activecumbria.org.

More about Active Travel to School