Key findings:

• Half of journeys to school are less than 5 minutes, one third of these are in cars

• Children are happier when they have safe roads, good pavements, and engaging surroundings

• Children like that School Street schemes elicits a sense of solidarity and community cohesion, a finding not reported before

• Children’s reported active travel decreased in School Street schools; the schools had above average active travel levels and further research is required on School Street schemes in schools with lower rates of active travel

• It is important to ask children about their perceptions as these can can differ from adults

Recommendations to improve children’s journeys to schools

• Improve traffic safety, pavements, and things to see and do near schools to support child wellbeing

• Encourage frequent active travel to school and ensure good air quality to support children’s enjoyment of their trip to school

• School Street schemes serve varied purposes so decision-makers should define clear aims, base eligibility on need as well as feasibility, and ensure community engagement and support

• Where School Street schemes aren’t feasible, alternative measures (e.g. traffic calming, walking and cycling infrastructure) and interventions (e.g. cycle training, park and stride) should be provided to promote active travel, wellbeing, and safety; these can also complement School Street schemes

• Listen to children’s ideas to make streets nicer (e.g. more play places, greenery) and easier to actively travel (e.g. fewer parked cars, less traffic, active travel infrastructure)