SCHOOLCHILDREN from Huddersfield spent the day learning about how to travel safely by bus.
Year 6 pupils from Rowley Junior and Infants School took part in the Junior SAFEMark workshop, run by West Yorkshire transport provider Metro.
The children arrived at the workshop, held at the Galpharm Stadium, onboard a yellow bus and then spent time learning about how to use buses safely.
Working with programme coordinator Debra Wheeler, they learned how to read bus timetables and internet journey planners and the importance of considering the environment when they make their way to school.
This year 92 schools from across West Yorkshire have taken part in the free workshops, which show children how to plan journeys and travel safely and confidently on buses.
Since their introduction four years ago, around 10,000 pupils have taken part in them.
They are designed for Year 6 pupils because from September they will be travelling to their new secondary schools and many of them will be on their own using public transport for the first time.
Year 6 teacher Jane Nicholl said: “The children had a great time. It was the first time our school took part in the workshop and we will definitely be taking part again next year.
“It’s great that this kind of workshop is available for them because it can be a daunting experience for the children, going to high school for the first time. These workshops give them the support system and reassurance that they need.”
Debra Wheeler, Metro’s Junior SAFEMark coordinator, said: “Transition to secondary school is a big leap for many Year 6 pupils and a lot of them have some trepidation about starting their new school.
“Some of them look a little bit intimidated when they arrive, particularly if they haven’t used buses before, so it’s nice to send them away as confident little passengers.”
