John Griffiths MS joins pupils on the walk to school

John Griffiths, Senedd Member for Newport East, said: 

 “Programmes like WOW are vital for keeping children and their families active and healthy, while tackling the current climate emergency. Although carbon emissions are still dangerously high, small steps, like walking and wheeling to school, can make a big difference. The mental and physical benefits of staying active are so important too, so I’m very pleased that young people are taking up this mode of transport, with the encouragement of Living Streets.  

“Well done to pupils and teachers at Durand Primary School who are making great efforts to travel more sustainably. I’m sure it will encourage more to follow in their footsteps.” 

Deryn Howell, School Coordinator for Living Streets Cymru, said:  

“It was a real pleasure to celebrate International Walk to School Month with John Griffiths MS and for him to learn first-hand how pupils are benefitting from walking and wheeling to school with WOW.” 

“Leaving the car at home and walking or wheeling all or some of the way to school is a simple way for children to get the 60 active minutes a day recommended by health experts. It’s also great for mental wellbeing and reduces congestion and air pollution.” 

Antony Moses, Deputy Head Teacher at Durand Primary School, said:  

“At Durand Primary School, we strive to encourage all our families to be healthy – and what better way of doing this than walking to and from school? Not only does it contribute to the reduction in carbon omissions, it also provides family talk time, supports everyone's health and well-being, and the school gates become a safer place.

“The children love to collect the monthly badges that are provided as a token of their hard work. Thank you to Living Streets Cymru and Welsh Government for allowing us to access this great scheme – and to John Griffiths MS for visiting the school today.”