19/09/2011

Primary Schools Encouraged To Put 'Best Foot Forward'

Transport Minister Danny Kennedy has launched a new initiative to promote sustainable transport for primary schools throughout Northern Ireland.

'Best Foot Forward for Schools', is a teaching tool designed for use by teachers of Key Stage 2 pupils and was developed by the Department for Regional Development's Travelwise NI, with the support of the Council for the Curriculum, Examinations and Assessment (CCEA).



The launching took place at Crumlin Integrated Primary School, where the Minister said the resource would help teachers bring the advantages of using sustainable modes of transport such as walking, cycling, public transport and car-sharing into the classroom.

Mr Kennedy commented: "This initiative will help to educate and inform children about how the travel choices they make can affect their lives in a wide range of ways.



"Incorporating walking and cycling into the daily travel to and from school will keep children fit and healthy by contributing to their recommended daily exercise. It also encourages the younger generation to consider their impact on the environment by connecting with the world around them and allows them to gain valuable road safety skills and general awareness.



"A fifth of cars on the road during peak hours are due to children being dropped off at school all over Northern Ireland. Many of these children live within 20 minutes walk of the school. We would encourage schools to get involved with Best Foot Forward and promote the benefits of leaving the car at home, saving money on fuel and decreasing congestion around the school gates." 



Every primary school in Northern Ireland has received a copy of 'Best Foot Forward for Schools' as both a booklet and a CD Rom to use with an interactive whiteboard.

It is also available to download on DRD Travelwise NI

(JG/CD)

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