Walking School Buses
What is a Walking School Bus (WSB)?
The WSB initiative is run by Auckland Transport. On a walking school bus children walk the route to and from school, supervised by volunteer drivers (usually parents or grandparents), creating a safe and social journey to school. Children either join the bus at the start point or are collected along the route, and then are dropped off within the school gates. Along the way they have an opportunity to socialise and learn about road safety.
What routes does Birkenhead Primary School have?
We currently have four WSB routes: Hinemoa Hikers, Mokoia Marchers, Mahara Magic and Zion Lions.
When does the WSB run?
Hinemoa Hikers runs morning and afternoon. The other buses only run in the mornings and not necessarily every day - our route coordinators have more information about exactly when the buses run.
What is the process if my child wants to walk on the bus?
The first step is to complete a registration form – either download and print this form here or collect from the school office. Once this is received back from you (either drop the completed form to the office, or scan and email to Mariah Brunt), your child will be officially registered and given a welcome pack with information about the route including a bus ticket and WSB tag.
You are welcome to walk with your child on the bus a few times to settle them in.
What are the benefits of a Walking School Bus?
The walking school bus gives your child a healthy, safe and social way to get to and from school. We also run special Term Treats for all our walkers and a Term Awards presentation in assembly where your child can receive walk achievement tags (50, 100, 200 etc) and prizes.
Can I get involved?
There are always opportunities to be involved, either through driving a weekly shift, taking on a coordination role, or helping with the Term Treats.
More information or further questions?
For more information about the Walking School Buses, please email our coordinating parent Mariah Brunt - mariah.brunt@gmail.com.
