More than 300 pupils at Ballakermeen High School will be participating in an Active Travel Week that will include taking part in the Big Street Survey. The week will run from 9 to 13 March and will promote and encourage active travel.
The Big Street Survey is an exciting curriculum resource available to all schools and delivered by Sustrans, a charity appointed by Isle of Man Government to help deliver the Active Travel Strategy. This resource will help pupils to investigate how the area around their school could be made safer, greener and further encourage active travel to and from their school.
Sustrans, on behalf of Isle of Man Government, have worked with Ballakermeen High School to coordinate a week of activities that will include; healthy breakfasts for all pupils who actively travel to school during the week, bike maintenance classes and lessons in sustainable travel.
Active journeys are a low emission alternative to travelling by car or other motor vehicle and can lead to lowering the Isle of Man’s emissions in line with the Island’s commitment to climate action.
Infrastructure Minister Hon Ray Harmer MHK said:
‘Initiatives that promote low carbon travel alternatives will go a long way to help achieve the Island’s goal of a net zero emission future. It will also bring improvements to personal health and wellbeing, increased air quality and reduced congestion in school areas.
‘Pupils will learn some valuable skills like repairing a punctured tyre and general bike maintenance. They will also be encouraged to think about greener alternatives and the environment around them.
‘It is pleasing to see schools embrace the active travel mentality and help us to imagine an island where cycling and walking are a realistic choice for people of all ages and abilities.’
