Despite the wet weather, spirits were high this morning as St Mary鈥檚 RC Primary School in Brynmawr, in partnership with Blaenau Gwent Road Safety Officers, proudly launched the schools Walking Bus initiative.
This marks the first time the school has taken part in such an initiative, and it was a fantastic success! Even the schools support dogs, Dachshunds Dotty and Betsy, got involved.
Starting from The Welfare Park, pupils and staff followed a carefully planned route to school, using designated crossing points to ensure a safe and enjoyable journey. The walk concluded just in time for Breakfast Club, setting a positive tone for the day ahead.
Going forward, the school plans to host Walking Bus sessions on the first Tuesday of every month, encouraging more families to get involved.
The scheme aims to:
- Reduce traffic congestion at the school gates during drop-off times
- Promote healthier lifestyles by encouraging walking over car travel
- Support children鈥檚 wellbeing, both physically and mentally
- Foster environmental awareness by reducing vehicle emissions
Walking together also gives children the chance to socialise with friends, enjoy fresh air, and start the day with a sense of community.
A big well done to Mr. Buckley, Headteacher at St Mary鈥檚 RC School, for championing this initiative and motivating both staff and pupils to take part. He shared:
鈥淲e hope to make this a monthly initiative and encourage as many children as possible to join. The weather didn鈥檛 stop us today鈥攁lthough it may have discouraged a few from joining in. Those who did take part thoroughly enjoyed the short walk to school, chatting with their friends and teachers. The scheme is a great way for the children to start their day with energy, connection, and a sense of achievement.鈥�
Angharad Barrett, Traffic Safety Officer for Blaenau Gwent Council, said, we strongly encourage more schools to consider setting up a walking bus scheme. It doesn鈥檛 have to involve a long route 鈥� even a 10-minute walk from a designated meeting point is enough to give children a healthy, active start to their day, reduce traffic congestion around school gates, and promote safer, more sustainable travel habits. If your school is interested in participating, please don鈥檛 hesitate to get in touch. We鈥檇 be happy to arrange a visit to discuss the opportunity in more detail.
