Park and stride call to up pupil health

Parents and young people across the country are urged to leave their cars at home and walk to school next week (17th - 21st May). But if this is not an option, says the Council, parents can still build some exercise into the school run by parking away from the school gates and walking the rest of the way.

One local school, St John Fisher Catholic Primary in Pinner, is launching two new walking buses on Monday, including one that starts at nearby Cambridge Road car park for park and striders.

The council is supporting Walk to School Week this year by providing resources to 35 Schools in the borough, who will tailor events to suit their local area and school population. The national campaign aims to encourage parents and children to get to know their neighbourhood better by exploring it on foot.

As well as learning more abut their local environment, children learning road skills and keep active. 

Robert Agutter, travel planning officer at Harrow Council, said:

"Daily exercise is key in fighting childhood obesity and walking to school is one of the easiest and best ways to make it part of your child's routine.

"While we would encourage all parents to leave their cars at home for the school run it's simply not an option for everyone, and that's why we are promoting the park and stride option.

"The health benefits are clear but children learn other skills to such as road safety, independence and a better knowledge of their local area."

Anne Lyons, head teacher at St John Fisher Catholic Primary, said:

"With great parent support we are able to start our walking buses which are so enjoyed by the pupils taking part."