This World Book Day, Thursday 5 March 2026, why not combine the joy of reading with the benefits of active travel? With 2026 also marking the National Year of Reading, it’s the perfect opportunity to inspire pupils to explore books while promoting active journeys.
Over the years #TeamModeshift have pulled together an Active Travel Booklist (PDF 699 KBs) packed with exciting titles for all age groups, from EYFS to KS3 and beyond. These books feature themes of cycling, walking, and adventure, making them ideal for classroom projects, reading corners, themed assemblies, or creative activities such as:
- Reading Challenges: Encourage pupils to read a book from the list and share their favourite journey or character.
- Creative Writing: Ask pupils to write their own active travel adventure inspired by the stories.
- Practical Links: Combine reading with a walk, cycle, or scoot to school day, or encourage children to explore car – free ways to visit their local library, bookshop, or other community spaces.
Get creative and add a little flair to your active travel!
Pupils could ‘bling’ their bike or scooter in the style of a favourite book character – whether it’s Mrs Armitage’s adventurous cycle, walking the Yellow Brick Road, or whizzing along on a broomstick.
Remember to record these activities in STARS.
Travel Titans of Ferrars Academy
In the spirit of World Book Day, we’re celebrating some brilliant creativity from the Travel Titans of Ferrars Academy
During weekly meetings and lunchtime clubs, pupils researched, designed, illustrated and edited a book to help their school community understand active travel choices and how small changes can make a big difference.
The finished book has been shared with parents and carers through the school newsletter, and printed copies are now in every classroom. The children are incredibly proud of what they’ve achieved – and so are we!
Sustainable Travel by the Travel Titans of Ferrars Academy (Pdf 6 Mb)
For the grown-ups:
Parents, workplaces, and community groups can also get involved! Celebrate World Book Day by combining reading and active and sustainable travel – try a themed walk, cycle, or scoot with your family, colleagues, or local community groups.
Let’s inspire a love of reading and active travel this World Book Day. Grab a book, get moving, and share the adventure!
