Trailblazers

Trailblazers are parents, pupils and school staff who want to improve children’s health, wellbeing and safety helping them to walk, cycle or scoot to and from school and Early Childhood Centres.

The Trailblazer scheme involves signs which are placed along popular routes to school highlighting the time it takes to walk to school from that point. This will either be 5 or 10 minutes. If you live a significant distance from the school you can still drive to a safe location near a sign and walk, cycle or scoot from there.

Along the route, parents/carers can scan the Trailblazer QR codes on lamp posts which will take you to a daily message, question or challenge from the pony, Blaze. You only need to scan one code per day.

Please note: The website will never ask you for personal details or to enter any information.

9 reasons to become a Trailblazer!

1. It’s the perfect way to squeeze more activity into our busy lives

   According to government guidelines, children need at least 60 minutes of physical activity every day and adults should get a minimum of 150 minutes a week. At 1.6 miles, the average primary school journey is a distance that can be cycled, scooted or walked.

2. It boosts mental health and wellbeing

   Physical activity can increase mental alertness, energy, positive mood and self-esteem. It also helps to reduce stress and anxiety.

3. It’s the best way to start the day

   Teachers find that pupils who walk, cycle or scoot arrive at school more relaxed, alert and ready to start the day than those who travel by car.

4. It will help to ease congestion outside the school gate

   1 in 5 cars in the morning rush are on the school run. Leaving the car at home means you’ll take the hassle out of parking too.

5. It increases children’s road safety awareness

   Instilling a love of cycling, scooting or walking in children from a young age has long-lasting benefits. It develops road awareness which encourages independent travel as a teenager and can also create good habits for a more active adult life.

6. It’s good for the environment

   Up to 40,000 early deaths are attributable to air pollution each year in the UK. Getting out of the car and walking, cycling or scooting are all great ways to reduce your carbon footprint, reduce air pollution and address the climate crisis.

7. It lets you connect with the world around you

   Cycling, scooting and walking bring you closer to nature and the changes in the seasons. You’ll spot wildlife and notice the leaves changing colour on the trees.

8. You’ll save money

   Cycling, scooting or walking the school run will save you and your family a small fortune. You’ll be forking out less on petrol/diesel and you could also save money on gym fees due to the extra exercise you'll be getting, leaving you with more cash in your pocket.

9. Think of all the fresh air, freedom and fun you’ll have along the way

   Taking time out of your day to cycle, scoot or walk together is a great chance to catch up with your child about their day and it’s a good way to spend quality time with each other. You’ll all enjoy the fresh air and freedom of an active school run.