A Path to Leadership: The Success of Walk Leader Training Across FEL Active Travel School Hubs
The Paths For All accredited walk leader training program offered through FEL Scotland’s Active Travel School Hubs has been a resounding success. By equipping senior pupils with the skills and knowledge to lead primary school pupils on health walks through their local communities and beyond, we’re fostering a new generation of passionate leaders. These young leaders are helping to support their schools and communities, promoting physical and mental well-being through the power of walking. Health walks are essential for promoting both physical and mental health, providing a fun, engaging environment that encourages mindfulness and allows students to disconnect from screens. The training course gives pupils the tools to plan and lead walks, teaching them how to identify hazards, complete risk assessments, and ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all involved.
The hands-on learning, led by experienced FEL walk leader trainers, creates an open, supportive environment for growth. The pilot course at Balfron High School saw pupils completing six weeks of training before earning their certifications and gaining the confidence to lead walks themselves. Since then, the program has expanded to multiple schools across the FEL Active Travel Hub network. Recognising that each school has different needs and schedules, the flexibility of the walk leader training has been key to its success. For example, at Alva Academy, senior sports leader pupils were able to complete the training in just three weeks, thanks to their double periods. At Larbert High School, the training was condensed into a full school inset day, allowing pupils to finish the course in one day. The pupils thoroughly enjoyed the full day of learning and at the end of the training were asked “’What was your favourite part of the walk leader training?”. There were lots of different quotes of their main highlights of the day.
“Making our own route through creative learning.”
“Talking to new people.”
“Geocaching.”
“Recceing routes for hazards and risk assessing.”
“It broadened my horizons and will help to positive destinations.”
These trained walk leaders are now using their skills to offer health walks as part of their school’s holiday camp activities. Senior leaders will guide younger pupils to nearby parks and viewpoints, helping them to connect with their local community while promoting active lifestyles from a young age. Due to the knowledge the senior pupils have gained, the walks will be correctly recced, risk assessed and managed throughout to ensure a safe experience for all.
The walk leader training is just one of the many offerings in our school hubs. It has quickly gained popularity due to the certification, enjoyment, and transferable skills it provides senior pupils. As our program continues to grow, we are excited to see more young people stepping into leadership roles, making a positive impact on their schools, and inspiring others to get active and engage with their communities. FEL Scotland’s Active Travel Hubs ability to adapt to the unique needs of each school sets our delivery apart. With an embedded officer in each of our eight school hubs, we have a deep understanding of the inner workings of each school. This close connection allows us to tailor our programs to meet the specific requirements of each school, ensuring successful delivery and impactful experiences. Our officers’ relationships with staff, pupils, and parents also help us maximise our reach and create meaningful connections within the school and local community.
