St Laurence’s kids get their close-up

aving launched in November 2023, St Laurence’s Feet On Friday has proven to be a major success.

So much so that Get Ireland Walking has put the school front and centre for its latest online campaign.

“It’s been very successful,” says Yvonne O’Neill from St Laurence’s Parents Association. “We have taken approximately 100 vehicles off the road on the approach to the school, which can be extremely busy in the mornings.”

And as much as battling congestion and even indigestion is a definite plus here, along with all the physical and mental health benefits of getting together for an early morning stroll, there is one big, big incentive that has the kids involved particularly happy.

Namely, the reward of a stamp for each walk they take, with 10 stamps earning them a free healthy treat at The Bear Paw in Delgany.

Yowsa!

Murphy, Martin & O’Neill

“The children love meeting up with each other before school,” says St Laurence principal Ann-Marie Martin, “and have a walk and talk before lessons begin. It’s also a great way for the parents to catch up…”

Taking three different starting points – from Tesco, Lidl and Centra in Delgany – the success of Greystones’ Feet On Friday will, it is hoped, inspire other schools to follow.

“There’s a host of positive outcomes from an initiative like this,” says Green School’s Lucy Murphy, “and we have a wealth of resources and information for anyone who wants to start their own walking school bus…”

And that website is right about here. Well done to everyone involved. Especially The Bear Paw.