Two Havering schools have achieved Beacon Status after the success of their travel plans.

Brady Primary in Wennington, and The Coopers Company and Coborn School, in Upminster, were awarded the highest school travel award by Transport for London (TfL).

The schools have been promoting sustainable travel and cycling and have seen an increase in the numbers of children cycling to school. They organise regular bike promotions, bike training, bike clubs and secure storage.

The council said that both schools have produced outstanding results that are examples of what is possible to achieve.

Cllr Barry Tebbutt, cabinet member for environment, said: “I’m really pleased with all of the schools in the area that have made and continue to make a huge difference to the way that they are travelling.

“We are trying to minimise our impact on the environment as well as reducing the amount of traffic on the roads in Havering and these schools have proved that it can be achieved.

“The two schools that have achieved outstanding are an example to the rest, not just in the borough but across London. They have shown that hard work can pay off.”

Brady Primary School has appointed some of its students as healthy lifestyle ambassadors, who focus on organising health-related events and encouraging parents not to park at the front of the school.

Headteacher Trevor Bradbury said: “We are so proud to be the recipients of this award. This is an example of the ways in which the whole school community can work together to provide a whole range of cycling activities for the children to get involved in.

“The enthusiasm, dedication and sheer hard work of our cycling champion, Sandra Franklyn, has ensured that all children can access a range of cycling activities.

“Our small bike pool enables those families who cannot afford to own a bike to learn how to ride safely, develop health and sustainable lifestyles as well as having a lot of fun and developing their self esteem. The visible growth in confidence is a sheer joy to behold.”

Eight schools in the borough have achieved an outstanding status from TFL.