Walking to school at its lowest for at least eight years in Scotland

The proportion of Scottish pupils walking to school is at its lowest for at least eight years according to a survey by cycling and walking charity Sustrans.

It said there had been a "steady decline" from 45.8 per cent in 2010 - the first year all council areas took part. The total fell from 47 per cent in 2009, when all but three councils were involved.

The proportion travelling by bus also declined, to its lowest level, from 18.2 per cent in 2010 to 16.7 per cent. However, cycling has increased from 2.8 per cent to 3.5 per cent.

Scooting or skating also went up, from 0.7 per cent to 2.8 per cent. But such "active travel" fell overall for the second year, by 0.5 percentage points to 49.2 per cent.

Sustrans Scotland national director John Lauder said: “The survey is crucial in helping local authorities and partners to build a more accurate picture of how Scotland’s children are choosing to travel to and from school, and helps to pinpoint areas where more work can be done.

Research has shown that increased physical activity can help us lead healthier – and happier – lives. By encouraging young people to travel actively for their journey to school, we can ensure Scotland’s children develop healthier travel habits that will be continued later in life.”

Wouldn't it be fantastic if we had UK kids actively getting to school and then learning in an active classroom by using standing desks.