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Niamh and Aine Golonka ‘27 have been cycling to school since they started at GNS in Grade 6. They ride the 2.5 kilometres each way, rain or shine. Niamh says it’s a great way to start the day. “When it’s really rainy out, it’s actually kind of nice, because when you get to school, there’s fewer bikes in the racks, so we get the best spot!”
The twins aren’t the only students who cycle to and from GNS.
A Fall 2025 GNS Transportation Survey asked Middle and Senior School students how they most frequently get to and from campus. 10% of students say on most days, they bike or scooter in.
The survey—in which 380 Middle and Senior School students responded—also found that on most days, 20% of students ride the school bus in the morning, while nearly 9% walk to school.
Deputy Head of School, Mr. Cole Carlson says the numbers reveal some fascinating insight into how GNS families balance convenience with sustainability.
“It’s very inspiring to see the thoughtful transportation choices our students and families are making. It is remarkable to note that more than one-in-five Middle and Senior School students take the school bus,” says Mr. Carlson. “These habits align with our commitment as an EcoSchools Canada Gold School, on track to earning Platinum status. We are actively fostering sustainability, reducing our carbon footprint and empowering students to be leaders in climate action.”
53% of students report driving or carpooling with other families in the morning. Mr. Carlson says this is likely due at least in part to limited transportation options when you’re hauling gear and instruments in for an early rowing workout, band rehearsal or soccer, ultimate or basketball practice.
“Often, our students are required to travel off-campus for competitions, performances and service opportunities and that can complicate their travel options. That said, when students’ schedules allow for them to make use of alternate—and more active, environmentally friendly, and economical transportation options—they tend to.”
And after school? The number of car trips drops to 33%. More than one-in-five students ride the school bus, and nearly one-in-five walk home.
While a majority of students arrive by car in the morning, this survey suggests that the impact on neighborhood traffic is less than might be expected. Strong school bus use removes dozens of vehicles from neighborhood roads each day and active transportation habits like walking, biking, and scootering, promote student wellbeing and reduce emissions.
A May 2025 survey of GNS staff and faculty also reveals a trend that demonstrates consideration for the collective ecological footprint when it comes to transportation. 50% of those surveyed reported cycling, walking, busing or carpooling to and from work on most days.
GNS is always looking at how to offer students and staff more ways to lighten the load on local traffic patterns, and on the environment.
This Fall, the Westshore Express began service, linking students on the Westshore with GNS campuses in Victoria and Oak Bay. The Westshore Express offers daily, round trip school bus service that is direct. As a result it’s more environmentally efficient and accessible for families.
GNS students and staff continue to demonstrate care for the environment and a strong sense of community connection, working together to minimize the impact on neighborhood and regional traffic. With strong support for shared and alternative ways of getting around, the GNS community is making it clear that sustainable practices and educational excellence can go hand-in-hand.
About this survey: in this first ever GNS Student Transportation Survey, we surveyed Middle and Senior School students who are more likely to travel independently. This helps us for planning purposes as we think about infrastructure like bike racks and storage facilities.
GNS Student Transportation Survey, 2025
