Oldham Schools Achieve Modeshift Accreditation, Promoting Sustainable Travel

This recognition is awarded to schools that demonstrate excellence in promoting sustainable travel and encouraging pupils, staff, and parents to walk, cycle, or use public transport. The accredited schools are:

• The Blue Coat School
• Christ Church CofE Primary School
• St Anne’s CofE (Aided) Primary School
• Buckstones Primary School
• Hey-with-Zion Primary School
• St Edward’s RC School
• Saddleworth School

Modeshift STARS (Sustainable Travel Accreditation and Recognition for Schools) is a national awards scheme that acknowledges schools that have demonstrated excellence in promoting active, safe, and sustainable travel. Achieving this accreditation highlights the commitment of these schools to reduce congestion, improve air quality, and encourage healthier lifestyles among parents, staff, and pupils.

Cllr Mohon Ali, Cabinet Member for Education and Skills, said: “It’s fantastic to see so many schools in Oldham receiving Modeshift accreditation. This recognition reflects the hard work and dedication of the schools, their staff, and the wider community in promoting sustainable and active travel. By walking or cycling to school, you are not only improving your health and wellbeing but also contributing to a greener and more sustainable Oldham.”

The accreditation process involves working with the council’s strategic transport team on actively implementing travel initiatives every month, teaching children and parents healthy travel habits to and from school.

The accredited schools have been recognised at different levels:

• Green Accreditation – Approved Travel Plan: Christ Church CofE Primary School and The Blue Coat School
• Bronze – Good Travel Plan: St Anne’s CofE (Aided) Primary School, Buckstones Primary School, Hey-with-Zion Primary School, St Edward’s RC School
• Silver – Very Good Travel Plan (TBA Modeshift Stars in September 2024): Saddleworth School (We are hoping Saddleworth will be awarded silver accreditation by Modeshift next month.)

Honourable mention: Greenfield St. Mary’s for working closely with the council on their cycle storage and travel plan.

Thank you to the following schools for sending in postcode data and hands-up surveys: Holy Trinity Dobcross, Blessed John Henry Newman Roman Catholic College, St. Aidan and Oswald RC Primary School.

Thank you to the following schools for sending in travel initiative evidence: Mather Street Primary School.

The success of these schools shows that with dedication and teamwork, we can make big improvements for a greener and healthier future, giving our children the best start in life.

Other schools interested in working with us on Modeshift STARS are encouraged to email ac***********@ol****.uk.