Derbyshire School Wins National Award for Transforming Travel Habits

A primary school in a Derbyshire village has received national recognition for its efforts to promote active travel, after introducing the county’s only car-free “School Street” and encouraging pupils to walk, cycle, or scoot to school.

William Gilbert Endowed C of E Primary School and Nursery in Duffield, part of the Derby Diocesan Academy Trust, was honoured with a Mode Shift Month award after achieving full participation from pupils and their families in a campaign focused on greener travel choices.

The school, which has around 240 pupils, was recognised alongside major organisations including Luton Airport, Bedfordshire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, and Derbyshire County Council at an awards ceremony held at The Royal Society in London.

The accolade follows the school’s recent ‘Outstanding’ rating under the Modeshift Stars scheme—an honour awarded to just 75 schools nationwide for sustained and impactful work in reducing car use on the school run.

Judges praised William Gilbert’s wide-ranging initiatives designed to inspire healthier and more sustainable travel habits. Among the highlights was a month-long cycling challenge, during which families collectively covered 435 miles—the equivalent distance from Duffield to Paris. The achievement was marked with a celebratory Active Travel Breakfast for all pupils.

Other initiatives included scooter safety workshops, an art project focused on active travel, and a themed travel trail. Parents were also encouraged to commit to a ‘parking pledge’, while pupils took on leadership roles as Junior Travel Ambassadors.

The judging panel described the school’s efforts as a “standout” example of how long-term commitment and community involvement can deliver meaningful change.

The award comes roughly a year after the school introduced Derbyshire’s first School Street scheme, restricting vehicle access on Vicarage Lane during drop-off and pick-up times to improve safety and reduce congestion.

In addition, the school has partnered with charity Living Streets to promote “Park & Stride” options—encouraging families to park further away and walk the remainder of the journey together, recognising that some travel by car is unavoidable.

These combined efforts have led to a dramatic shift in travel behaviour. Over four years, the proportion of pupils arriving by car has dropped from 37% to just 3%. Meanwhile, around 20% of pupils now cycle or scoot to school, compared to none in 2022.

Parents have welcomed the changes, highlighting the social and wellbeing benefits. Emily Davies, a staff member and parent, said walking to school has become an enjoyable daily routine that helps children start the day feeling calm and ready to learn.

Headteacher Helen Britten said the award reflects the collective effort of the entire school community. She emphasised that active travel not only supports health and reduces emissions but also helps children feel empowered in addressing climate change.

Dr Sarah Clark, CEO of Derby Diocesan Academy Trust, praised the school’s achievements, describing its approach as inspirational and noting that such recognition is rare at a national level.

The success of William Gilbert Primary demonstrates how schools can play a leading role in reshaping travel habits, benefiting both local communities and the environment.