On My Way

At TWGGS, we are launching a new initiative called On My Way, which focuses on pupil behaviour, safety, and wellbeing when travelling to and from school.

Over recent weeks, we have been listening carefully to pupil voice about experiences on buses, at bus stops, and on walking routes to and from school. While many pupils travel without difficulty, it has become clear that there are behaviours in these shared public spaces that can make some of our pupils feel uncomfortable or unsafe. We believe it is necessary to address this openly and constructively.

As part of the On My Way campaign, we are taking a clear, proactive approach. Your child may have mentioned the assemblies which took place last week. Our aim here was to clearly explain what unacceptable behaviour looks like on journeys to and from school and to give them practical advice on what to do it they experience or witness it. We also spoke about reporting concerns, and launched a new safeguarding email address specifically for concerns regarding travel to and from school: omw@twggs.kent.sch.uk. You can find the slides used in those assemblies below.

We are planning to liaise with other local schools, the police and travel companies going forward in an effort to establish clear reporting systems, sanctions and escalations for unwanted behaviour.  We are hoping to have a positive impact and we will keep you informed with any developments.  You’ll see more information on the assembly slides, should you wish to look.

We are so grateful for the support of our parents and carers, and we know many of you will be invested in this initiative and want to help. Something simple you can do is speak to your children about their journeys to and from school. How do they feel about it? Do they understand what unacceptable behaviour looks like in that context? Are they clear on how to report any concerning behaviour they experience or witness going forward? Please reinforce the message that they have the right to feel comfortable and calm whilst travelling to and from school and we absolutely consider their journey part of our school safeguarding boundary. They are not expected to manage any difficult situations alone. The rationale is not to assign blame or create fear but, as a community, we can have accountability alongside understanding. We hope to have a positive impact. 

Thank you for your continued support.
 

On My Way Assembly Presentation