Ninestiles Learners Present Travel Action Plan to Mayor of Solihull
Ninestiles, an Academy, part of the Summit Learning Trust, in collaboration with Modeshift (the UK’s leading sustainable travel organisation) is embarking on its third year of transformative learner-led initiatives aimed at improving road safety and promoting sustainable travel. This year, the school is focusing on helping the local community find healthier, greener ways to commute to school and work.
On 11th February, a group of learners from the school presented their latest project to industry experts and the Mayor of Solihull, highlighting the impact on sustainability, road safety, and carbon footprint reduction. The initiative, which has already earned Ninestiles a “Good” award from Modeshift, seeks to further improve this achievement by aiming for the prestigious “Excellent” award in 2025.
This year’s campaign is designed to reduce congestion in the local area and cut down on harmful carbon emissions. The school is encouraging learners, staff members, and parents to car-share, walk, or take public transport, especially during the designated “Travel Wise” week. By taking part in the walking competition, learners will track their sustainable travel choices, and a quiz will educate participants on how car fumes contribute to pollution.
The learners were bidding for £200 of funding from the council, which will be used to reward those who demonstrate sustainable travel habits, with prizes like water bottles, smartwatches, and beanie hats. The initiative will also include activities such as road monitoring surveys, educational quizzes, and social media engagement with the wider community.
The school is already seeing progress, with data collection through a “hands-up” survey and a competition to encourage walking to school. As part of its continued commitment to sustainability, Ninestiles is planning future campaigns on recycling and further carbon footprint reduction.
Alex Hughes, Headteacher at Ninestiles, an Academy said:
“We are incredibly proud of how far we’ve come with our road safety initiatives, but this year, our focus is on sustainability and encouraging everyone in our school community to adopt eco-friendly travel options. This project not only addresses environmental concerns but also strengthens our community’s commitment to healthier, safer travel methods. We are excited to continue this journey and hope to make a meaningful impact.”
