Lambeth schools have posted record-breaking figures for participation in a scheme to increase rates of walking and cycling, run by Transport for London (TfL).
The council’s Active Travel team has revealed that this year, Lambeth has seen the biggest year-on-year increase in TfL’s Travel for Life accredited schools across the whole of London.
Lambeth has doubled its total of ‘Gold’ accredited schools from eight last year to 16 this year – and increased the number of ‘Bronze’ accredited schools from 4 to 14 in the same period. The results add up to an overall increase of over 150%.
What is Travel for Life?
Travel for Life is an accreditation programme designed to inspire young Londoners to travel actively, responsibly and safely, with gold, silver or bronze accreditation awarded based on the number of activities that have been completed. To reach Gold accreditation, schools must reduce car use by six per cent or achieve 90 per cent of the school run being made on sustainable transport.
The increase in Lambeth came after the council’s Active Travel team was out and about over the last academic year, visiting schools and welcoming new Travel Champions to the programme. Thanks to everyone’s enthusiasm and commitment, Lambeth has managed to bring many more schools on board, all working together to inspire the next generation of active and sustainable travellers.
Word from Cabinet
Councillor Rezina Chowdhury, Deputy Leader, Sustainable Lambeth and Clean Air, said: “We have been working hard to create the conditions for people to choose to travel in more active and sustainable ways as part our vision for Lambeth as a cleaner, greener and safer place.
Children are residents of the borough and they are a central part of that vision. We know that how you travel to school can affect your performance and happiness while at school, so I’m delighted to see this recognition that families are choosing to walk scoot or cycle to school.”
Travel for Life supports schools with free resources and activities that promote walking, cycling, public transport and road safety.
For Lambeth residents, this means local schools can take part in fun, educational initiatives that reduce car use, improve air quality and make streets safer. It’s a great way to build healthier travel habits and support a greener community.
