In a bid to promote safe cycling and foster a healthier lifestyle, Mr Tayler, Head of Outdoor Education, has collaborated with various local organisations to help deliver a comprehensive cycle training programme to New Scots. This initiative, launched by Sport Aberdeen in partnership with Asylum and Refugee Care, aims to equip individuals with the necessary skills and knowledge to safely navigate roads along with bike maintenance.

Mr Tayler, renowned for his passion for outdoor activities and education, has been a driving force behind numerous initiatives geared towards promoting physical activity and environmental awareness. He shared: “Sport Aberdeen's dedication to organising these cycling sessions for New Scots in Aberdeen underscores the collaborative effort needed to ensure everyone can enjoy the city safely.  Cycling is not only great fun and exercise, it's an effective and free method of transport. 

“Working alongside Sport Aberdeen and other partners to promote essential cycling skills was a fantastic opportunity. Through these efforts, we enhance safety and create a sense of belonging and empowerment among New Scots as they navigate their new surroundings.”

The programme incorporated many of the Robert Gordon’s College core values:

• Community: Welcoming the new scots to Aberdeen and helping to educate keen cyclists

• Innovation: Bridging language barriers using technology and amateur dramatics

• Resilience - Adapting to change and cycling safely opens up opportunities for travel around the city effectively and efficiently

• Curiosity - Many of the new Scots were curious about how to get around the new city safely and enjoyably.

Laura Benson, Project Activator for Cycling at Sport Aberdeen, said: “Many of the New Scots are keen to explore the city by bike and they welcomed the safety advice provided. It is intended that further cycle safety sessions for New Scots located elsewhere in the city will be provided. Our Community Sport team at Sport Aberdeen will continue to work with New Scots to create more opportunities to participate in sport and physical activity, including Rock Up & Ride led rides, football and fitness sessions. We’d like to thank the cycling trainers Tim Bowden, Sustrans’ Bike Communities Officer for Aberdeen and Bob Tayler, Head of Outdoor Education at Robert Gordon’s College, for dedicating their time to deliver the session.”

The cycle training programme has gained enthusiastic participation, highlighting the growing interest in cycling as a means of transportation and recreation. 

Call out for cycling accessories

We're reaching out to ask if any members of our community have any cycling accessories they no longer use and would like to donate to the New Scots to help reduce the risk of accidents and promote a culture of safe cycling for everyone. Your contribution, no matter the size, will make a meaningful difference to the New Scots community. This could be: 

• high-visibility gear

• Helmets

• Lights

• reflective materials

• locks

Please ask your child to deliver the items to the school reception for the attention of Mr Bob Tayler, or leave them with the gatehouse.