Westburn Walks on Wednesday

Westburn Walks on Wednesday

Westburn School adapted an idea used by Christchurch City Council to create Westburn Walks on Wednesdays. The PTA created a competition within our school with the aim of addressing road safety and encouraging physical activity in our children.

Our road safety issues were created by congestion and chaos. Westburn School only has public access along the Waimairi Road boundary, which is part of the Christchurch ring road system. Traffic volumes are large and morning congestion is a particular issue. NZ Police and Christchurch City Council were consulted on these matters.

Westburn Walks on Wednesdays was implemented in March 2006 to encourage students to walk, cycle or scoot at least part of the way to school. Parents who drive are encouraged to park away from the school gate and Waimairi Road. There are defined stretches of footpath you must walk along, rather than a limit on walking time.

Our innovations include weekly rewards, flexible ‘win’ criteria, defined walking areas and continuity. Each week the junior and senior class with the highest percentage participation receives a coveted Westburn Walks on Wednesdays trophy. The PTA provides prizes each term for the winning classes. The competition continues throughout the school year.

A survey in July 2005 showed 41% of children usually travelled to school on foot, by scooter or bicycle. In 2008, on average, we had 84% of the school participate in Westburn Walks on Wednesdays. Parking outside the school is barely used on Wednesday mornings and traffic flow is less chaotic, as noted by our road patrol and staff.

The simplicity of the scheme is key to its success. The children enjoy the competition and it is well supported by the wider school community. It has become integrated into school life and the children are proud to say “Westburn Walks on Wednesdays”.

Further information: Rosemary Walton, .