As a primary school teacher in Bristol, I have a deep passion for organising enriching cultural and educational trips for my students. Many of these visits and workshops are either free or come at a minimal cost. However, the need for transportation often adds an exorbitant price tag to these otherwise affordable school trips. This additional cost disproportionately impacts lower-income families who struggle to afford these educational opportunities. With school budgets as they are, it is increasingly hard for schools to support families financially when going on trips. 

The West of England Combined Authority Metro Mayor Dan Norris has already secured £3.1 million for his ambitious Culture West programme seeking to to provide each child and young person in the area with at least one cultural experience each year. It is time to combine this vision with efforts to develop a lifelong use of public transport in young people.  

Give Schools a Pass is a campaign to get support and funds for schools to utilise public transport as an economical and environmentally friendly alternative to hiring coaches. Not only will this significantly reduce the costs of school trips, but it will also instil in our children the healthy habit of using public transport from a young age.

Bristol has committed to being carbon neutral by 2030. This requires an 88% reduction in emissions in the transport sector in the next decade. University of Bristol research has found that increasing the share of journeys to 25% is needed to reach the expected net-zero targets. 

By encouraging schools in Bristol towards this shift, we not only alleviate financial burdens on families but also contribute towards our shared goal of achieving net-zero emissions. Let's make education accessible while promoting sustainable habits among our future generations.

Tell the WECA Metro Mayor Dan Norris to work with transport operators to facilitate school groups to use their services.