An independent school in Aberdeen has started an online car-share scheme, in what it believes is a first for Scotland. St Margaret’s School for Girls hopes it will ease congestion and boost awareness of environmental issues.
The school said there had been an enthusiastic response from parents, who will be matched with nearby families and take turns to drive pupils to school.
The system works via a link on the school’s website and uses the same security devices as banks, ensuring parents’ details are kept secure. Those who want to join click the link and are confirmed as a parent by a staff member. This allows them to get in touch with other local parents.
Head Julie Land said: “We are excited to be launching the car-sharing scheme and believe it will be popular with our parents.
“We have pupils from right across Aberdeen city and shire attending St Margaret’s, and to provide an alternative to our school buses, which will give added convenience to families as well as addressing `eco’ issues, is something we are very proud of.”
St Margaret’s, the only all-girls school in the north-east of Scotland, launched the scheme during its Eco Week. It had a whole day when no paper was used in lessons and created a plastic-free zone by making their own bags, using juice cartons and tape. Other activities included papermaking and learning about the “recycling journey”.
The school has earned bronze and silver Eco Awards and achieved its first Eco Schools green flag this year.
It has two very active eco-committees, one for primary pupils and one for secondary.
