News

Air pollution: A low parent priority, despite latest evidence

Government policy Whole-school issues Pupil wellbeing
There are more than 2,000 schools and nurseries situated close to roads with illegal levels of air pollution in England and Wales. However, survey data from Friends of the Earth shows that pollution is not high on parents’ list of priorities when choosing a school.

A survey of 1,020 parents of school-aged children (4 to 16) found that only 10 per cent are worried about their children breathing dirty air while at school or on their way to and from school.

While this figure does rise to 28 per cent in London, the survey found that bullying and their children making friends were parents’ top priorities.

Air pollution is becoming an increasingly high-profile issue for schools after research last year revealed that 2,091 schools, nurseries, further education centres and after-school clubs are situated within 150 metres of a road with illegal levels of nitrogen dioxide pollution from diesel traffic.

Register now, read forever

Thank you for visiting SecEd and reading some of our content for professionals in secondary education. Register now for free to get unlimited access to all content.

What's included:

  • Unlimited access to news, best practice articles and podcast

  • New content and e-bulletins delivered straight to your inbox every Monday and Thursday

Register

Already have an account? Sign in here