The scheme has three levels; Sustainable (bronze), Higher Standards (silver), and Outstanding (gold), each demonstrating a higher level of enthusiasm, commitment, delivery and results. All accredited schools receive a plaque, kite mark logo (displayed on a plaque and certificate) and are invited to attend a training and best practice workshop. Each award also carries a different length of duration which you will find detailed in the following pages.
The Accreditation Scheme, now in its 4th year has 29% (879) of schools in London accredited. In some London boroughs the number of accredited schools is higher than 60%. Accredited schools have shown a 9.41% decrease on average in car use since 2004. This compares to the average for all schools (with an active travel plan) in London of a 6.48% decrease. For the higher achieving schools the decrease in car use stands at an exceptional 12.36%. Accredited schools have a greater increase in walking and cycling levels too when compared to schools with just active travel plans.
| Modal shift 2004-2010 |
Car | Car share | Bus | Rail | Bike | Foot | Park and walk |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Higher and outstanding |
-12.41% | -1.27% | 1.10% | -0.31% | 2.06% | 6.90% | 3.77% |
| Sustainable | -8.49% | -1.16% | 1.79% | -0.30% | 1.07% | 5.17% | 2.04% |
| All levels | -9.41% | -1.19% | 1.55% | -0.32% | 1.33% | 5.61% | 2.44% |
| All schools | -6.48% | -0.78% | 1.40% | -0.27% | 1.02% | 3.75% | 1.31% |
Alongside leading the way in modal shift away from the car, accredited schools also lead by example in promoting active lifestyles, awareness of the environment and reducing the number of killed or seriously injured on the road. These schools actively involve the school community to work together on travel activity, integrate it through curriculum work and make links to other schools and local partners.