Encouraging young children to be active in getting to school safely

The City of Ballarat is supporting primary schools to participate in a program that encourages young students to get to school in an active and safe fashion.

The Active 2 School Tag On program is an incentive-based software system that allows school students to "tag on" at a kiosk when they arrive at school.  

Once they arrive, students select how they travelled – walking, bike, scooter, car or public transport. Each time students use the system, they earn individual and school house Active Travel Points.

Parents and/or guardians also receive an email or SMS when the student tags on, reassuring them that their child has arrived safely.

Delacombe Primary School and Magpie Primary School have already been involved in the program and have both recorded an increase in children being active in getting to school.

There are another six positions available for schools to be involved in the program.

City of Ballarat Councillor, Cr Belinda Coates encouraged schools to come forward to participate in the program.

“There are so many benefits that arise out of children getting to school actively and independently,” Cr Coates said.

“Whether it is walking, riding, scooting and skating to school, it is a great way to increase confidence, capability and independent mobility for young people.”

Physical Education Specialist Teacher at Delacombe Primary School, Adam Storey said the Tag on System had provided many benefits.

“Not only does it encourage active travel to school, but in a fast-growing area we will identify safe routes to school,” he said.  

“This can help the students build independence and help reduce our parents’ concerns about traffic and road crossings.”

Schools who participate in this initiative will be supported during the start up phase of the program by a City of Ballarat council officer including the supply of 1 tag box and 200 student tags.

The program is funded by VicHealth and Roadsafe Central Highlands.

Application forms can be filled out by completing the Active 2 School Tag On Application form.

For further information visit the Tag On website.