Walking with Waterlea School

Walking with Waterlea School

Teachers have started a new walking club which sets off two days a week at 7am for a 45-minute walk. The teachers are also trying to raise awareness among parents by asking them to drop older students off a block or two away from the school gate and putting walking reminders in newsletters.

The weekly statistics being gathered show an increase in the numbers of children walking to school. One class has reached 89% and the school weekly average has increased to 59%.

They are using resources on the Feet First website which include creating a walking blog complete with pictures and digital videos.

Principal Margaret Palmer says one class is really excited about the video clips they are making to increase awareness of the benefits of walking. She says the project also gives students a great opportunity to get out and explore their surroundings. Both the Junior and Middle school children are enjoying weekly “learning walks” around the block.

Further information: , feetfirst@nzta.govt.nz.