WOWing Moray: Bishopmill Primary celebrates sustainable travel success as part of Living Schools Scotland’s Walk once a Week (WOW) programme
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A BISHOPMILL Primary School event has celebrated pupils’ efforts in walking, cycling and scooting to school as an alternative to car use.
The school held a celebratory event on September 1 to mark a new year of Living Schools Scotland’s Walk once a Week (WOW) programme.
The event held at Bishopmill Primary was attended by Councillor Sandy Keith (Labour, Elgin City North), who came to celebrate the success of the programme alongside the school’s pupils.
Cllr Keith said: "It’s great to see how the school is working with Living Streets Scotland to make the walk to school an accessible option for pupils and their families.
"I’m sure this will encourage more children to make the most of the health and environmental benefits that come from regular exercise."
WOW is a national project which motivates kids to use healthier and eco-friendly ways to travel to school.
Over 150 schools across Scotland take part in WOW, with 20 schools in Moray taking part in the programme.
Pupils log their journeys every morning in class and if they consistently use more healthy ways of transport, they are rewarded monthly badges for their achievements.
Moray Council and Living Streets Scotland have collaborated on this project for eight years, which is also a part of the Moray Council Active Travel Strategy.
According to Living Streets Scotland, WOW schools see a 5-10 per cent increase in pupils walking to school, with a corresponding drop in car use.
Living Streets Scotland’s programme manager, Chris Thompson, said: "We’re thrilled that so many schools across Scotland are experiencing the many benefits that regular exercise can bring to our health and happiness.
"Walking to school can help children and their families start the day with a spring in their step and it’s great to see such dedication and enthusiasm from pupils and staff."
