School commute survey results: active travel is common on school commutes in Hämeenlinna
The goal of the school commute survey was to determine the modes of transport used for school journeys and the amount of active travel, particularly for commutes under three kilometres. Guardians of primary and lower secondary education pupils responded to the survey conducted at the beginning of the autumn semester. Information on the subject was already gathered from pupils last winter as part of the city’s own Hobby Preference Survey.
Based on the results of the guardian survey, active school travel is very common for commutes under three kilometres. According to guardians, 33% of pupils walk to school and 62% cycle. In total, 95% of pupils complete their school commute primarily using their own muscle power. The same positive result is reflected in the pupils’ responses. For school commutes under three kilometres, 47% of pupils reported that they usually walk to school and 38% cycle. In total, 85% of pupils said they travel their school commute under their own power.
The results show that walking and cycling are the most common modes of transport in Hämeenlinna, especially for short school commutes. Active school travel is visible in the pupils’ daily lives throughout the school year, as nearly 95% of guardians estimate that their child travels their school commute by walking or cycling for at least half of the school year.
Why is it worth walking or cycling to school?
According to research, daily physical activity supports the physical, mental, and social well-being of children and young people, as well as their learning. Regular exercise is linked to better concentration, cognitive skills, and school performance. In addition, an active school commute helps accumulate the recommended daily amount of exercise as part of normal everyday life.
We thank all the pupils and guardians who responded to the survey and wish you an active autumn with the following video: