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Transition to secondary school – transport and active travel information

Moving to secondary school is a big change. Planning how your child will travel can help them feel confident and prepared from the first day. This guidance, which you can also download as a PDF, helps parents and pupils:

  • understand travel options
  • plan a safe and reliable journey
  • build independence

Plan the journey

Start planning early so your child knows what to expect. You can:

  • check school start and finish times
  • find out about breakfast or after-school clubs
  • look at entrances, exits and cycle storage
  • check if there is a school bus
  • read the school website for travel advice

You can choose the best option for getting to school that suits you and your child. This could include: 

  • walking
  • cycling
  • scooting or wheeling
  • public transport

Practise the journey before the first day to build confidence.

Stay safe when travelling

Secondary school journeys may involve busier roads and longer distances. You should:

  • allow extra time so your child does not need to rush
  • use safe crossing points
  • stay alert to traffic
  • travel with friends where possible

Have a backup plan in case of delays or changes to the school day.

Cycling and scooting

Cycling or scooting can help your child travel independently. Make sure that you:

  • check brakes, tyres and gears regularly
  • use a well-fitted helmet
  • wear bright clothing or use lights in darker conditions
  • lock bikes and scooters securely at school

Training courses like Bikeability can help build skills and confidence.

Public transport

Make sure your child understands how to use public transport safely. You can:

  • check bus and train times before travelling
  • arrive early in case of delays
  • make sure your child knows where to get on and off

You can also explore discounted travel options for young people.

Benefits of active travel

Walking, cycling, scooting or wheeling to school can:

  • improve health and fitness
  • support wellbeing and confidence
  • build independence and life skills
  • save money on travel
  • reduce traffic and air pollution
  • make roads safer around schools

If you need to drive

If driving is necessary, you can help reduce congestion near the school.

  • park 5 to 10 minutes away
  • walk the rest of the journey

This is often called ‘park and stride’.

Find more information

You can find more support and advice online, including:

For questions, email activetravel@bcpcouncil.gov.uk

Summer travel challenge passport

Our Summer travel challenge passport is an interactive form that you can complete with your child over the summer, before they start Year 7. It covers topics such as:

  • understanding routes to school on a map
  • identifying safe places to cross roads or unsafe travel situations to avoid
  • testing how long it will take to reach school or a nearby bus stop to help with morning planning
  • cycling skills
  • what to pack for safe travel