Trailblazers: A Network of Walking Ambassadors

What is a Trailblazer?

A Trailblazer is an older student who serves as a walking ambassador for your school after receiving training to become a confident and competent walker. They walk a preferred route to school, wearing a visibility vest and modeling safe behaviour. They may also help with safety assemblies, support active transportation events, and make regular announcements encouraging walking and rolling to school.

A proven model

Experience shows that the visual cue of having dozens of vested students walking in the community and converging upon the school during commute time serves as a bright alert to drivers that there are vulnerable users on the sidewalks. The numbers of vested students also demonstrates additional trained “eyes on the street,” contributing to the feeling of safety experienced by students and parents alike. We recommend 20-30 students enter the program per school to ensure great coverage.

Training

• Trailblazers must:
  • Submit caregiver permission form (2026/27 form)
  • Attend yearly Trailblazer training – delivered in-school once per year in the Fall
• In the training, Trailblazers learn to:
  • Model good pedestrian skills for others;
  • Use well-travelled routes to school;
  • Be inclusive and watch for bullying on the street;
  • Alert the school about anything of concern on the school route.

School resources

2026/07 School Registration Form

Trailblazer Program Overview

Trailblazer School Coordinator Role & Responsibilities

Student Recruitment Flyer

Suggested Announcements for Trailblazers to Read