I'm loudly anti-car and I live in Scotland. Honestly, when it comes to weather most people are pathetic. A bit of cold/rain won't kill you, just need gloves and a light waterproof later.
I walked or cycled miles to school my whole life in one of the wettest areas of Europe. Parents need to toughen up, wrap their kids up, refuse to give them lifts and kick them out the door.
I did 2.5 miles each way, mixture of up and downhill for school. As a late teen I cycled 10-15 miles each way up a massive hill, 2/3 times a week for amateur theatre rehearsals, on top of the walk to school/work. It was great for me. Despite eating rubbish I was in fantastic shape.
I walked or cycled miles to school my whole life in one of the wettest areas of Europe. Parents need to toughen up, wrap their kids up, refuse to give them lifts and kick them out the door.