Getting to school without a car

Walking to school is easier with local initiatives designed to make it safer and more enjoyable.

What you can expect

We are making it easier for parents and carers to take their children to school without relying on the car. There are a number of projects being trialled or in place that are designed to help, with more being planned.

How they are being funded

Each of these projects is funded by schemes that encourage other methods of travel – inspiring decisions that will help keep us healthier and fitter, whilst also reducing carbon emissions and the amount of traffic on our roads.

Find out more

  • 1

    Street tag

    Physical exercise is turned into a game with street tag. Get your school to sign up? It’s quick and easy, one in the community can contribute the points they win for walking to help the school reach the top of the leaderboard. Find out more about how you can turn a healthy activity into rewards

  • 2

    Footsteps

    Teaching young children the rules of the road is essential. It’s important they’re able to make their own decisions and understand what keeps them safe. Footsteps can be used to guide your child through all the things they need to think about, giving you great prompts to help build their understanding.

  • 3

    Park and stride

    Park and stride routes encourage walking, talking and having fun on the way to school. Characters and signs show the way and there are activities to do on the route too. Find out more about the pilot schemes, and how you can register your school.

  • 4

    School streets

    A school street restricts access to cars, vans and buses at school drop-off and pick up times. This makes it safer and healthier for parents, carers and children to walk to and from school. 

  • 5

    Cycling to school

    Check your bikes, are they safe? Regularly check the brakes work and the wheels are pumped up. Children learn from watching us and you’re a great role model. Follow Oxfordshire fire and rescue service’s top tips for cycling with children. Find the best and safest route to school.