ALLENDALE Primary school has been recognised as the Primary School of the Region for the North East.

The school won Modeshift STARS Northumberland School of the Year and North East Region School of the Year from 2021 to 2022.

Modeshift STARS, which is the Centre of Excellence for delivering Effective Travel Plans in Education, Business and Community settings, said its top achievement was improving road safety and access to the school.

"This award recognises the work being done in school to promote active journeys to school, such as walking, scooting and cycling as well as Clean Air initiatives such as the themed day earlier this week," the school said.

Modeshift STARS said: "Despite their rural location, Allendale Primary has a very proactive, 'can do' attitude to encouraging sustainable travel, with the Headteacher fostering an inclusive attitude so all pupils can take part and gain these valuable life skills, with pupils also getting involved in planning activities."

Also commended were active playtimes.

"Pupils can bring bikes and scooters to school to use during playtimes, this is a simple idea but has had a dramatic effect and increased the numbers of pupils cycling and scooting to school during the summer term," Modeshift STARS said.

Promoting inclusivity was also celebrated, as the school ensured its rural location was not a barrier to any pupil.