Northumberland Schools Step Up for Walk to School Week

20 May 2025

Schools across Northumberland are stepping up to take part in Walk to School Week, running from 19–23 May.
Organised by Living Streets, the UK charity for everyday walking, the annual campaign encourages pupils to experience the many benefits of walking, wheeling, or cycling to school.

As part of National Walking Month, thousands of children across the UK – including over 5,000 pupils from 25 schools in Northumberland – will participate in this year’s themed challenge: The Great Space Walk. The initiative encourages children to travel actively to school each day, using fun, space-themed diaries filled with activities to enjoy on the way to school and in the classroom.
Families are encouraged to walk, wheel, cycle, scoot, or ‘Park and Stride’ throughout the week, helping reduce congestion at the school gates and promoting healthier, happier lifestyles for children.

In Northumberland, many schools are going the extra mile by organising additional activities such as walking buses and scooter or cycle breaktimes, all aimed at making the week even more fun and impactful.

Tracy Aitken, Transport Project Officer at Northumberland County Council, said:
“Once again, our schools have outdone themselves with their enthusiasm and commitment to Walk to School Week. It’s a fantastic opportunity to raise awareness and celebrate the benefits of walking and wheeling instead of jumping in the car. We hope lots of families will get involved and enjoy getting active on the school run.”

Gary Hilton, Executive Head Teacher of the Tweed Learning Federation, explained:
“Walk to School Week is always a very popular event at Norham and Berwick St Mary's First Schools. The respective school councils work hard to plan a range of activities that promote the benefits of the initiative - from encouraging physical exercise and supporting wellbeing to simply having fun.”
Last year, over 260,000 pupils across the UK took part in Walk to School Week and with excitement building, this year promises to be even bigger.