(Image: Darlington Council)
Darlington students are helping shape the future of sustainable travel by encouraging more young people to walk, cycle and use public transport.
More than 20 students have worked with transport professionals through the Active Travel Ambassadors programme to promote cycling, walking and public transport.
Projects so far include a cycle-loan scheme at Haughton Academy, public transport sessions at Hurworth School and a bike-equipment loan project at Queen Elizabeth Sixth Form.
Darlington students promote sustainable travel through cycling, walking and public transport projects, as council and Modeshift invite more schools to join. (Image: Darlington Council)
Nick Wallis, Darlington Borough Council’s cabinet member for children and young people, said: "This programme reflects our ambitions laid out in the Council Plan of helping residents to live well and stay healthy whilst ensuring Darlington is a thriving place with well connected communities.
"It is great to see the young people identifying transport challenges, developing practical solutions and becoming advocates for sustainable travel within their schools and communities.
"The enthusiasm, creativity and leadership shown by the students has been fantastic and provides a strong foundation for future active travel initiatives across the borough."
The projects aim to change travel habits among thousands of pupils while giving students valuable leadership and communication skills.
The council and Modeshift are urging more secondary schools and sixth-form providers to join the programme.
Lou Millington, Active Travel ambassador coordinator for the North East at Modeshift, said: "It has been wonderful to see the pupils’ passion pouring into their campaigns as well as their confidence growing with every session.
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"Schools have a lot to gain from this free programme. It is designed not only to tackle the transport issues experienced outside the gates, but also to provide campaign funding that teaches the students valuable skills in budget management and organisation.
"I’m looking forward to seeing what this academic year brings, building on the success of last year’s schools as well as welcoming new schools to the ATA Programme."
Schools and colleges can find out more on the Modeshift website or register by emailing lou@modeshift.org.uk.