Jingili students get a few lessons from Hector the Cat in preparation for walk to school day

Students and families are encouraged to ditch the car and get their steps up in their commute to school on Friday. See the photos.

Hector the Road Safety Cat visited Jingili Primary School to promote National Walk Safely to School Day. Picture: Darcy Fitzgerald

On Friday May 16, primary school students across Australia are encouraged to walk to school.

The annual Walk Safely to School Day was introduced in 1999 to promote road safety, as well as children’s health, community connection and environment protection.

Jingili Primary School principal Mark Mangohig said his school community was excited to be involved.

“It’s a great initiative,” he said.

“Walk Safely to School Day gives us the opportunity to connect with students and have conversations about healthy lifestyle choices, road safety and the environment.

Jingili Primary School principal Mark Mangohig and students Robin Box and Arla Griggs. Picture: Darcy Fitzgerald

“Family are the first teachers, and this event gives them a great opportunity to be involved in teaching their kids about road safety.”

Mr Mangohig said about half of the community lived near the school and hoped most of them would be involved.

“We do already have a large contingency of families who walk, ride or scooter to school,” he said.

“Our community is very environmentally conscious and this event also highlights that.”

Jingili Primary School were very keen to get involved. Picture: Darcy Fitzgerald

The event promotes road safety awareness. Picture: Darcy Fitzgerald

Hector the Road Safety Cat visited a lucky school on Wednesday to further promote the event.

“It’s great to have Hector here this morning — the kids just love him,” Mr Mangohig said.

“Having Hector here is a tangible reminder of road safety.”

Originally published as Jingili students get a few lessons from Hector the Cat in preparation for walk to school day