Berkshire STEP

In recent years, many schools across Berkshire have developed school travel plans in order to address safety, health, environmental and community issues associated with high levels of car use for travel to school. Other schools are in the process of developing their travel plans or have yet to start.

As a way to encourage and reward schools to develop and progress with their travel plans, the local authorities of Berkshire have developed the School Travel Excellence Programme (STEP). It comprises three basic elements: a system of accreditation; an annual conference; and an annual awards ceremony.

Using a system of self-assessment, schools can gauge the success of their travel plan against identified criteria such as: consultation; curriculum activities; measures implemented; promotion and publicity; and progress towards targets. Assessment is undertaken on an annual basis.

Bronze, silver and gold standards have been developed and certificates will be awarded to schools, based on their assessments. Receiving a bronze, silver or gold STEP certificate is an opportunity for schools to demonstrate to parents, governors and everyone in the school community, that they are promoting safe and sustainable travel to their school.

The annual Berkshire STEP conference provides an opportunity to learn about the latest guidance and best practice case studies as well as bringing together similar schools from across Berkshire. The content addressed at the event will be designed to address issues raised by local schools.

There will also be five annual awards for schools and individuals that can demonstrate they are effectively tackling travel issues and promoting safe and sustainable travel to schools. These will be presented at the annual Berkshire STEP conference.

For further information on Berkshire STEP, please contact the Transport Policy Team (tel: 01628 79 6097, e-mail: transport.planning@rbwm.gov.uk).

Presentations from the 2007 STEP Conference

•   School Travel Plans Presentation (pdf 758KB)

•   Introduction to STEP Presentation (pdf 195KB)

•   Healthy Schools Presentation (pdf 120KB)

•   Final STEPS Presentation (pdf 212KB)