Dungarvan students come out in force to encourage walking and cycling

Students were out in force in Dungarvan last week for the launch of the Stride to School initiative at St Augustine’s College.

The initiative aims to encourage walking and cycling as fun, energising and sustainable ways for students to travel to and from school.

The Dungarvan students welcomed Stride to School as a chance to socialise with friends, exercise before class and help reduce traffic congestion around the school.

Gary Morahan, Deputy Principal at St Augustine’s College, highlighted the social, environmental and health benefits of the initiative, saying, “Stride to School is a fantastic opportunity for our students to mix with each other on the way to school. It’s very good for their physical health and mental wellbeing. 

"As they walk to school each morning, they can chat and interact with each other. It’s also very good for the environment and helps to reduce traffic congestion around our school.” 

Eamonn Cashin, teacher at St Augustine’s College, said the school community is “absolutely delighted” to begin the project. 

 “The students are walking to school in their hi vis vests, they are safe, healthy, the sun is shining. It’s a fantastic initiative and I would love to see more schools in the area get behind it" he said.

Meanwhile, Dylan White, Active Travel Communications and Behavioural Change Officer at Waterford City and County Council, commended the school for leading the way in encouraging healthier, more sustainable daily travel routines for its students.

“St Augustine’s College has shown great leadership in getting Stride to School up and running. It’s starting to build momentum and will continue to grow over the coming months. We look forward to working with schools across Waterford to launch Stride to School and support them in changing travel behaviours.”