Northolt primary school gets gold recognition from TfL

A Northolt primary has joined more than 1,000 schools across London to be awarded the highest level of accreditation in Transport for London’s (TfL) schools programme, cutting car use on the school run and boosting walking and cycling.

Gifford Primary School achieved gold status last month (August 2025) through TfL’s Travel for Life initiative, which encourages pupils to travel more sustainably.

Sylvie Igidbashian, the school’s PSHE lead, said: “The best thing about TfL Travel for Life is seeing children empowered to make a difference. Whether it’s taking part in events like Walk to School Week, joining our travel working group, or simply choosing to walk instead of drive, pupils feel ownership and pride in their contributions. The programme has also given us access to resources and support that make these initiatives both fun and effective.”

TfL recently revealed that 1,009 schools across the capital had now reached gold accreditation, an increase of 283 over the past year. In Ealing alone, 32 schools are signed up to the programme: 20 have reached gold, six silver and six bronze.

TfL says the scheme supports the Mayor’s Vision Zero strategy to eliminate deaths and serious injuries on London’s roads while cutting air pollution and improving children’s health.

To qualify for gold, schools must cut car use by at least 6% or ensure 90% of journeys are made by walking, cycling or public transport. The programme, which has run since 2004, is delivered in partnership with the London Transport Museum and borough councils. Waltham Forest has the highest proportion of schools engaged, while Lambeth saw the sharpest rise last year.

Will Norman, London’s walking and cycling commissioner, said: “It is fantastic that over 1,000 London schools have achieved the highest level of accreditation with TfL’s schools Travel for Life programme. Each additional school that gains gold accreditation helps deliver real benefits to both the environment and people’s health.”