Students at St. Paul CES in Lakefield hop on The Link to build real-world transit skills

Feb. 17, 2026

Students at St. Paul Catholic Elementary School in Lakefield stepped outside the classroom and onto a Link Transit bus.

The goal of the event was to provide the students with practical skills that will help them navigate their community with confidence.

On Feb. 12, 2026, Grade 7 and 8 students participated in a hands-on transit workshop made possible through a partnership between Selwyn Township, Peterborough Transit, and GreenUP. 

The interactive session gave students the opportunity to learn how to safely and independently use public transportation in their community.

Rather than simply hearing about transit in theory, students boarded The Link bus and explored how the system works from understanding routes and schedules to learning rider safety and transit etiquette. 

The workshop built on successful pilot sessions previously offered in the City of Peterborough and marked an important step in expanding the program to youth in Selwyn Township.

For many students, learning how to use transit opens doors. 

Knowing how to ride the bus empowers youth to access after-school programs, part-time jobs, volunteer opportunities, and social activities even when a ride from family isn’t available. 

Introducing these skills during the intermediate years helps foster independence at a pivotal stage of development.

In rural communities, public transit plays an essential role for residents who do not drive or have access to a vehicle. 

The Link has steadily built ridership in Selwyn Township, connecting residents to services, programs, and neighbouring communities.