PICTURES: It was amazing to be part of the Noss Primary School bike train, says Maree Todd
MSP Maree Todd hailed Noss primary in Wick as “a standout example” of how schools can promote physical activity in accessible and enjoyable ways after she joined the last weekly bike train for this year.
Numbers have risen week by week for the cycle-to-school initiative in which pupils are accompanied by adult leaders. A total of 135 cyclists took part on Friday morning, representing 47 per cent of the school roll.
That beat the previous record of 92 cyclists.
Having pedalled in from Staxigoe, Ms Todd – the MSP for Caithness, Sutherland and Ross and Scottish Government minister for social care, mental wellbeing and sport – later presented Noss with its Rights Respecting Schools silver award at the morning assembly.
“It was amazing to join the pupils, parents, grandparents and staff of Noss Primary School as they pedalled on the bike train – a fantastic, and popular, scheme that’s promoting regular exercise among pupils,” Ms Todd said.
“As sports minister, I often cite Noss Primary School as a standout example of how schools can promote physical activity that is both accessible and enjoyable for pupils.
“Morning exercise not only improves concentration but also lifts mood, making it the perfect way to kick-start the school day.
“We also know that cycle-to-school schemes can encourage kids to stay active as they help instil healthy habits from a young age, resulting in substantial long-term health and wellbeing benefits.”
She added: “To top off an already fantastic morning, I had the privilege of presenting Noss with a Rights Respecting Schools silver award. This award acknowledges the school’s commitment to creating an inclusive and supportive environment where children’s rights are upheld and respected. Well done to everyone involved!”
The bike train has been trialled as a partnership between Noss Primary School and national charity Cycling UK, with pupils and adults joining at different points along the route from Staxigoe through various residential streets on the north side of Wick.
The weekly rides will resume in the spring.
George Ewing, Cycling UK’s Caithness-based development officer, said: “The popularity of the bike train, sometimes called a bike bus, has far exceeded our expectations and it was fantastic to see Maree Todd coming along and supporting the ride.
“Bike trains are a great way for kids to start the day with physical activity, travelling to school sustainably while having fun with their friends – so much better than taking the car!
“This was our last train until March/April next year but what a way to finish. We had music, smiles and waves all the way.
“Thanks again to all the other road users for being so pleasant and for kindly giving us space.”
Scott Runciman, Scotland advocacy lead for Cycling UK, said: “Bike buses highlight the critical need for safer routes to schools and fewer cars at the gates.
“While we’re delighted that the Wick bike train is so popular, it’s important to remember that many of these rides around the country started as a protest against poor infrastructure and limited transport options.
“To make real, lasting change, we need continued investment in safe cycling infrastructure so that children have the option to safely travel to school independently.”
After the presentation of the Rights Respecting Schools award, head teacher Fraser Thomson said: “This session, we will continue to embed the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child in its policy, practice and culture. We are beginning to see the positive impact of embedding a Rights Respecting Schools approach on children and young people, staff, and on the school’s ethos, practice and environment.
“Our pupils are beginning to see themselves as rights-respecting global citizens and advocates for fairness and children’s rights in our local community and around the world.
“During assemblies, we have looked at featured articles and related these to current events in society. Our classes have also been exploring these during lessons.
“Our classes have class charters which are supported by our school charter, playground charter and lunch hall charter.”
Mr Thomson had ridden in on a side-by-side tandem with principal teacher Caroline Aitken. Pedalling behind in a trailer to the tandem were depute head Carole Begg and Helen Davidson, one of the school’s grannies.
Also on Friday, pupil Jace Tate was served with the 1000th breakfast of the session so far by attending the school’s breakfast club. It is led by Maureen Forbes and supported by kitchen supervisor Paula Fraser.
