First Walking Bus sets off in Witney to help children start the day active
Children and families in Witney took their first steps on a new Walking Bus route this week, helping pupils walk to school safely while building healthier habits.
The Walking Bus launched today, Monday 23 March, with families gathering at the Woodgreen Council Offices before setting off together for Witney Community Primary School. School staff and volunteers joined the walk, helping to support children along the route and create a friendly, welcoming start to the day.
A Walking Bus works much like a normal bus route but on foot. Children join along the route at pre-agreed locations and walk to school together, supervised by adults.
The scheme helps children stay active, grow in confidence and make friends. It also helps reduce congestion and improve safety outside the school gates.
Children, parents and volunteers walked together in good spirits, marking a positive start for the new initiative. The strong response from today’s launch has already led to interest from more families who would like to take part.
Councillor Rachel Crouch, Executive Member for Stronger, Healthy Communities, said: “It was such a lovely morning seeing children chatting, smiling and enjoying the walk together. It’s a simple idea, but it makes a real difference. Families can spend time together, children arrive ready for the day, and we all benefit from quieter, safer streets.”
A volunteer who joined the first walk said: “It made the morning feel much calmer and more enjoyable. It’s a great way to start the day, and it was lovely to see the children feel part of something.” A school child taking part in the Walking Bus added: “It’s like an adventure!”
The Walking Bus will now run every school day, with routes shaped by the families who sign up to take part. If the scheme continues to grow, there is potential for more routes to be introduced in the future.
The initiative supports the Council’s wider work with local schools and communities to encourage healthier lifestyles and more sustainable travel. Helping people walk or cycle more is an important way to improve wellbeing while reducing car use.
Families interested in joining the Walking Bus can speak to the school to find out more.