Old Earth Primary School is working with Modeshift to make journeys to school safer, healthier and more sustainable. Through our STARS and Active Travel Inspectors (ATI) programme, pupils are identifying practical improvements that will help more people choose walking, wheeling, cycling and public transport for everyday journeys.
Pupils Leading Change Through Active Travel Inspectors
The project also brings together Modeshift Corporate Premium Members TPS Consultants, Living Streets and the school. TPS Consultants is supporting the nearby housing development, while John Hacker, Director at TPS Consultants and a Modeshift Board Member representing STARS Residential, has helped build this partnership and champion active travel within plans for the growing community.
The need for this work has increased following proposals to build around 300 new homes next to the school. To respond, Head Teacher Daniel Burns joined TPS Consultants, Living Streets and Modeshift to explore local transport challenges and develop solutions that encourage more walking, wheeling and cycling.
The School Council has led the first phase of the project. First, pupils completed a whole-school travel survey. They then joined Sophie Kirkby from Modeshift to carry out an Active Travel Inspectors audit. Together, they assessed Lower Edge Road, the school car park and the route to the new school entrance. Along the way, they identified both barriers and opportunities for active travel.
Next, pupils walked a new pedestrian route due to open in the new academic year. As the new housing development increases footfall, this off-road route will help improve access to the school and create a safer journey for pupils and families.
The audit findings will now shape a school travel plan tailored to the community’s needs.
Looking ahead, the partnership will build on this work by promoting safer walking routes, engaging families and encouraging more pupils to choose healthy and sustainable ways to travel.
About Active Travel Inspectors
The Modeshift Active Travel Inspectors (ATI) programme puts young people at the heart of improving their local area. Pupils inspect routes, crossings, streets and public spaces before rating different aspects of their neighbourhood and recommending improvements. Their findings help schools, local authorities and decision-makers prioritise future investment.
