Evaluation highlights broad support for Walk to School events

Evaluation carried out following the summer 2002 Walk to School Week (WTSW) shows increasing support for the event and gives some interesting pointers for the future.

51 local authorities participated in the evaluation exercise, which was carried out by Dorset County Council on behalf of the National Walk to School Working Group. Of these 51, 45 participated in WTSW.

With regard to the local authorities that participated, over half the authorities indicated that the number of schools and pupils involved this year was greater than in 2001. The vast majority also indicated that they intend to support the autumn 2002 Walk to School Week (30 Sept – 4 Oct), International Walk to School Day 2002 (2 Oct) and Walk to School events in 2003.

Spend on the campaign was relatively modest, with half the participating authorities investing less than £2,000.

Launch activities included Walking Buses, voluntary car free areas, mascots and circus acts, competitions, school travel plan launches and local personalities joining children on the walk to school.

When asked about the Walk to School website, respondents suggested the addition of lesson plans and other downloadable resources, and a page for sharing ideas. Several authorities expressed a desire for lower cost campaign materials – with sponsorship mentioned as one way to achieve this.

For further information about the evaluation please contact Robert smith at Dorset county Council, tel: 01305 224680, email: walktoschool@dorset-cc.gov.uk