Parents cite safety and security as reasons why they drive their children to school

Alison McGregor, Devon County Council

Pupils will be asked how they got to school and the answers will be analysed by Devon County Council.

The council wants to develop transport plans which allay parents' concerns about children walking or taking public transport to school.

Devon County Council's school travel plan co-ordinator, Alison McGregor, said: "It will allow us to see just how many children walk to school, how many cycle and how many come by car or public transport.

"That will allow us to target our resources more effectively."

As well as reshaping the approach to school transport, Devon County Council hopes to address parents' concerns about their children's journey to school.

Pupils are being encouraged to walk to school

"Many parents cite safety and security as reasons why they drive their children to school but there are ways of overcoming their fears," said Alison McGregor.

"For example, a 'walking bus' allows children to walk to school in a group, supervised by parents, in a safe way.

"We will also be highlighting the health benefits of walking and cycling.

"Hopefully, this whole exercise will have educational, health and environmental benefits."

John Stocker Middle School in Exeter is one of the schools that will be conducting the survey.

All 400 pupils will be asked to raise their hands in answer to questions at the school's morning assembly.