TravelSmart Schools
Vehicles used for school-related travel purposes contribute to a number of growing problems on Queensland roads. Not only do they add to greenhouse gas emissions and add to the already heavy traffic congestion in many areas but, by adding to the number of vehicles on the road, they also cause an increased road safety risk.
Today, more children are being driven to school than ever before. The percentage of primary school children being driven to school has increased from 55% in 1992, to 72% in 2007.1
TravelSmart Schools is part of a range of initiatives within Queensland’s revised climate change strategy, ClimateQ: toward a greener Queensland.
The initiative will assist Queensland households to meet the Toward Q2 target of reducing private household transport emissions by one-third by 2020.
How can we help?
When it comes to addressing travel related issues at a school, there are many options that can be undertaken to improve your current situation. These include conducting events, raising awareness or registering for a fully supported TravelSmart school project. Either way, TravelSmart can assist with finding a solution to your school's needs. Some options include:
1. Commit to becoming a TravelSmart school
TravelSmart will soon be working in partnership with local councils, Earth Smart Science programs and selected Queensland schools to implement TravelSmart projects. Schools that successfully register with us will receive comprehensive resources and support to help implement their project.
Resources will include:
- a manual and toolkit containing templates, materials and information
- comprehensive training for the school coordinator
- TravelSmart merchandise in an incentive pack
- assistance in developing a travel plan
- a formalised process to measure the change in travel behaviour
- a range of activity briefs providing a step-by-step process aimed at encouraging student participation.
Limited funding may be available to support your project.
The registered TravelSmart school project follows a more in-depth version of the TravelSmart school process.
Further information will be available mid-2010.
2. Develop a School Travel Plan
A School Travel Plan is a simple, effective document aimed at increasing the use of sustainable transport modes at your school. Your school can tailor it to suit any local requirements that exist and it contains activities to enthuse and motivate the school community. Many schools choose this as the first step to changing the travel culture at their school. Further information and implementation advice can be found in the TravelSmart school process.
3. Participate in TravelSmart related activities
Why not conduct a sustainable travel activity at your school to raise awareness amongst students and parents. This can provide an opportunity for wider community involvement and is a great way to introduce newcomers to active travel. TravelSmart has developed a range of activities that are easily adoptable for use in your school.
TravelSmart is currently working with the Department of Education and Training to identify links between TravelSmart activities and Queensland curriculum.
Related links
1South East Queensland Travel Survey 1992, 2003-04, 2006-08; covering Brisbane Statistical Division, Gold Coast and Sunshine Coast.
