Dr. Kelly Morgan, Director of SHRN, recently took the stage at the Healthy and Active School Journeys Conference in March 2025, hosted by Welsh Government in Cardiff. This premier event brought together educators, policymakers, and urban planners to explore innovative strategies for promoting active travel to schools.
Ken Skates, the Cabinet Secretary for Transport and North Wales, officially opened the event, underscoring the Welsh Government’s commitment to active travel and accessibility in education. In his remarks, he emphasised the importance of promoting walking, wheeling, and cycling as essential components of a healthier and more sustainable approach to school travel. His speech reinforced the government’s vision for a future where active travel is not just encouraged but fully integrated into daily life.
During her presentation, Dr. Morgan highlighted the crucial role of The School Health Network Research Network (SHRN) in monitoring and shaping policies that support safer, healthier, and more sustainable active journeys for learners. She emphasised how SHRN’s data-driven evidence-based approach helps schools and communities implement effective active travel initiatives, ensuring accessibility and engagement for all learners.
Dr. Morgan said: ‘SHRN is committed to supporting schools in integrating health-focused travel solutions, reinforcing the importance of collaboration between education and public health sectors. It was inspiring to hear the incredible stories from Radnor Primary School about their Bike Bus initiative – a brilliant example of how schools can champion active travel in creative, community-driven ways.’
The conference featured interactive workshops, expert panels, and real-world case studies, highlighting successful programmes such as walking and cycling buses. Discussions also covered community engagement, infrastructure development, and the long-term benefits of active travel on learner well-being.
SHRN remains committed to supporting schools in integrating health-focused travel solutions, reinforcing the importance of collaboration between education and public health sectors.
