Lochaber children put their best foot forward

As part of "Walk to School Week" the children of Ballachulish Primary School have become the first school in Lochaber to take part in a new walking initiative.

‘Go For It’ is an incentive scheme developed by The Highland Council Road Safety Unit to encourage pupils to walk to/from school.

The aim of ‘Go For It’ is to help reduce the number of car trips made to school, reduce congestion, promote healthier and more active lifestyles, and help children develop important road awareness, by encouraging walking.

The children have been issued with a card which is stamped every time they walk to or from school. On completion of the card, the children will receive a reward.

In the Lochaber area the scheme is being generously supported by Nevis Range, who will offer a free Gondola day pass for every completed card received. Alternatively, children can use their card to gain free entry to the Lochaber Leisure Centre.

Active Schools Coordinator, Jamie Milne, said "the number of children walking to school has been declining steadily over the past 20 years. It is important that we re-address this problem and encourage children to take more active travel choices. By rewarding the children with a healthy, yet fun, activity, we hope that more children will see walking to school as a fun alternative to the car."

Several more schools in the Lochaber are expected to sign up to "Go For It" in the coming weeks. For more information on "Go For It", please contact Ailsa Campbell, Highland Councils School Travel Coordinator on 01463 702 673, ailsa.campbell@highland.gov.uk