Image
Modeshift STARS is a nationally recognised scheme that rewards schools who encourage sustainable, active, and safe travel.
Westhaven has a very high proportion of children who must travel to school by home to school transport. However, by thinking creatively, they have managed to introduce measures to decarbonise transport at their site.
A car parking reward scheme and policy that encourages staff to share transport, and school trips that take place by public transport and walking, are just a few of the ways that Westhaven are making a difference. Active and sustainable travel regularly features in school conversations at staff and student group meetings, and in communications to parents.
Headteacher Jamie Peacock said: “We are absolutely delighted, it’s fantastic for the whole school community because everyone – the children, staff, leadership team and the governors want to do as much as they can to help the environment. Next we will look to find other ways to encourage active and sustainable travel as part of our school day. A very high proportion of children must travel to us by home to school transport but that doesn’t mean we shouldn’t take part.”
Cllr John Ley-Morgan said: “I am so impressed by the positive work that Westhaven is doing. Every community is different, but we can all take steps and make more sustainable choices to reduce the impact on our environment.”
Cllr Steve Hogg, Executive Member for Transport and Highways at North Somerset Council said: “Well done to Westhaven School on this fantastic achievement. It’s great that active and sustainable travel regularly features in the school’s conversations and in communications to parents. We’re keen to make active travel, such as walking, cycling and scooting, the natural choice for parents and children to get to school. This means North Somerset will be a cleaner, healthier and more active place. This year, five North Somerset schools have received an award for their school travel plan and many more have signed up to the scheme and are making good progress. Our active travel strategy sets out ambitious plans to increase walking and cycling trips by 300% by 2030. We’re really proud of all our schools who are helping to achieve this.”