Schoolchildren hold protest to help reduce Sheffield's air pollution

Children at Oasis Academy Fir Vale, in Fir Vale, made posters urging people to ditch cars and use cleaner modes of travel instead.

The event was part of a number of initiatives held at the school to reduce air pollution and and enable it to gain its Modeshift Stars silver award, a national initiative which encourages safe and sustainable travel.

Sheffield Council has approved a wide-ranging strategy to roll out measures including a ban to prevent drivers from leaving engines running outside schools and hospitals. There is also the prospect of a clean air zone’ that could involve certain vehicles being charged.

Oasis Avademy Fir Vale teamed up with the Burngreave Clear Air Team to learn about the dangers of unclean air.

Principal Helen Round said: “At Oasis Academy Fir Vale we want to help our children grow and progress, not just academically but as young people.

“They have been so enthusiastic about being healthy and getting to school in a way that reduces the air pollution – we are very proud of them.”

“They have really embraced changing their habits around getting to and from school, and eating healthier foods – thanks to our parents for their support too.”