Aberdeen school first to win prestigious Cycling Scotland schools award

A school in Aberdeen has been the first to be awarded a national cycling prize for its commitment to helping pupils and teachers ride to work.

The Hazlehead Academy is the first secondary school to achieve Cycle Friendly Secondary School status, through its facilities such as bicycle parking, changing facilities and Bikeability Scotland cycle training.

Aberdeen City Council Education and Children's Services convener Councillor Angela Taylor said: "We are proud to have a school where pupils, parents and volunteers are so enthusiastic about this cycling programme.

"Enabling young people to cycle to school in a safe manner with proper equipment encourages them to be active and aware of their own health and fitness.

"Cycling is a fantastic mode of transport which also helps to reduce traffic congestion on our roads and decreases the carbon emissions count."

Hazlehead Academy created a school travel plan, including creating safe routes to school from each of the Academy's four feeder primary schools.

There was also the opportunity to try the Go Mountain Bike programme, with the help of Adventure Aberdeen, while safe cycle parking was put in place, including a special cycle rack commemorating the 2014 Glasgow Commonwealth Games.

Cycling Scotland development officer Paul Wright said: "It's been great working with Hazlehead Academy and I congratulate them on becoming the first Cycle Friendly Secondary School in Aberdeen.

"The school has demonstrated a real commitment to getting more people cycling to and from school.

"Cycling is a sociable and healthy way to travel and Cycling Scotland is delighted that the staff, students and volunteers at Hazlehead Academy have embraced cycling in such a positive way."