Munster Schools Join National Push for Sustainable Travel in Big Travel Challenge

More than 115 schools across Munster are competing for the title of Travel School of the Year as part of a nationwide initiative encouraging students and staff to walk, cycle and scoot their way to school throughout February.

The Big Travel Challenge, now in its ninth year, sees schools participate in a nine-day sustainable travel initiative under this year's theme of Making Connections. The programme asks school communities to choose active travel options over driving, whilst also running awareness campaigns where active travel may not always be feasible.

The theme highlights the importance of connecting with people, local places and nature during the school journey, helping students see their daily commute as more than simply getting from point A to point B.

Munster's participating schools form part of a wider national effort, with 444 schools currently working towards a Green Flag for Travel. Since the Travel theme was introduced, more than 2,800 schools across Ireland have successfully earned the Green Flag in recognition of their commitment to sustainable travel.

Allison Phillips, Green-Schools Travel Manager, said:

"The Big Travel Challenge offers schools an opportunity to be part of a nationwide movement towards more active and sustainable travel. With the introduction of gold, silver and bronze awards this year, there's even more motivation for schools to get creative and make lasting changes this February."

Active travel supports both physical and mental wellbeing whilst helping to reduce traffic congestion and vehicle emissions in local communities. Schools of all sizes and settings, including rural and urban primary schools, secondary schools and education centres, are encouraged to participate.

Last year, Scoil Chríost Rí in Portlaoise was named Ireland's Travel School of the Year following impressive efforts to increase the number of pupils and staff walking to school. Schools taking part in the 2026 challenge will be competing for prizes to support their Green-Schools Travel initiatives.

Participants must demonstrate a measurable increase in sustainable travel with a meaningful rise in awareness of sustainable travel issues. Schools are asked to document and promote their activities as part of their application, with the deadline for entries set for 27 February.

For more information, visit www.greenschoolsireland.org and follow local school progress on social media using #BigTravelChallenge.