Friday, 16 May
PUPILS at Dalgety Bay Primary have taken National Walk to School Week in their stride today by walking to and from school to help reduce congestion around the school gate and promote good health.
The pupils were accompanied by Helen Eadie MSP and local councillors in the walk to school from Dalgety Bay Parish Church car park. On arrival at the school, the children were given a bottle of water, donated by Highland Spring. Pupils who walked to school also carried a paper leaf to place on a tree to show how green the school had been. The nursery children also took part and carried a paper acorn.
On behalf of the school’s Parent Council, Mairi McTavish commented: “The School Travel Plan Survey showed that most parents and pupils felt the area around the school was the most hazardous part of their journey. As the school is keen to promote walking, it would be really positive if by reducing the 'school run' traffic, this could be achieved. We are asking parents to leave the car at home.
A park and stride alternative at Dalgety Bay Parish Church was offered to those who have further to come to school. We would like to thank the Church for supporting the school in our efforts to encourage walking to school. Also, we would like to thank Clare Hamilton-Sturdy at Fife Council and the Ramblers Association for contributing materials and incentives for this event.”
Kathryn Wortley, Promoting Walking Officer, Ramblers Scotland said: "Ramblers Scotland is pleased to support Dalgety Bay primary school's walking initiatives. Just thirty minutes of brisk walking for adults and one hour for children, on five days of the week helps maintain good physical and mental health. Walking to school is a great way to meet these targets for both children and their parents and it's also fun and easy to do. Walking can help prevent heart disease and some cancers, maintain weight and combat sleep problems and anxiety.
We would encourage parents and children to leave their cars at home and get on their feet, not only this week but on a regular basis. Walking is good for the environment, the children will arrive energized and it's a great social activity for families and communities."
Helen Eadie MSP added: “I congratulate everyone concerned who organised this initiative. This sets a good example for other children and parents and it was good fun sharing the chat and getting to know everyone better - the chance for making new friends.”
