TfL Explorers

TfL Explorers is a free year-round educational programme that inspires primary-aged children to travel actively, responsibly and safely. The programme is delivered in partnership with the London Transport Museum.
TfL Explorers badge image

The average journey to primary school is less than one kilometre. That's about a 10-minute walk.

Even so, many of these journeys are still made by car, resulting in congestion, collisions and poor air quality.

How does it work?

Each school needs to identify travel issues in their area. Then create a plan, select activities to address those issues, and reach the active travel targets. This is with the help of London boroughs and TfL.

Each activity the school completes is a step closer to gaining accreditation.

Schools are recognised as gold, silver, or bronze depending on what activities they do and the impact they have.

Primary school children driving scooters

How to get involved

  • Register online at the official TfL Travel for Life website, and you'll be connected with your local borough officer
  • Set your targets and submit your first Hands Up survey. Learn how to tell your school's story and measure success on the official TfL Travel for Life website
  • Explore the activities and make a plan. You can filter the plan by activity or travel issue. Take a look at our featured activities for inspiration and to plot the year ahead
  • Get going! Appoint a group of students or "ambassadors" to help you plan and do the activities. You can promote what you're doing to parents and guardians and gather as much evidence as you can
  • Tell your story. Upload photos, promos, leaflets, surveys, text or presentations to the official TfL Travel for Life website throughout the year. This will make it easier to apply for accreditation. Don't forget to track your progress!
  • Apply for accreditation in July 2024. Show your progress with the last Hands Up survey and then click the button to apply for accreditation

7 reasons to join TfL Explorers

  1. It supports your school's Travel Plan, Climate Action Plan and Enrichment Programme   
  2. It supports the Curriculum
  3. It helps to reduce car congestion around your school and improves road safety and air quality   
  4. It promotes peer-led projects and leadership as well as other life skills   
  5. It's free, easy and there's plenty of content, lesson plans and guides to support you   
  6. You'll be fully supported on your journey to accreditation by TfL and your local borough 
  7. There are awards and incentives like competitions and you'll be recognised for all your hard work with your accreditation!