Cycling proficiency for the 21st Century

A number of children from year 5 have been taking to the school playground and nearby roads this week as they work toward their Bikeability cycling proficiency awards.

In year 5, children are encouraged to bring their bike to and join a group of instructors to work toward achieving their level 1 or 2 Bikeability award. At level 1, children learn about their bike and learn how to make simple checks to make sure their bike is ready for riding. They also learn how to correctly adjust their safety helmet for use while riding. At level 2, children learn how to ride safely on the road for short journeys, signalling their intentions and identifying safety hazards.

Whilst the scooter might be most popular means of transports for travelling to school, most children own a bike. It's a great way to maintain an healthy lifestyle and with this comes the need to understand how to use a bike safely, particularly on public roads. The school regularly schedules activities that promote healthy lifestyles and Bikeability adds to this an important element of using a means of transport safely and responsibly in the child's own community.

The Bikeability team have some great reasons why cycling is so good for the rider and the community. They also have some handy tips for anyone who owns (or wants to own) a bike, including simple but important things like finding the right bike, getting the right equipment and then adjusting your bike so that its just right for you.