Encouraging pupils to bike to school

SCHOOLS across Staffordshire are being invited to take part in the 2019 Bike to School Week from September 23 to 27.

The campaign, being supported by Staffordshire County Council’s school travel team is calling on schools, parents and children to join the celebration and cycle to school during that week.

Current figures show that only two per cent of primary school children in England travel to school by cycle. This is a stark contrast to cycling levels elsewhere such as in the Netherlands, where cycling is the main mode of transport for 49 per cent of primary school children.

Helen Fisher, cabinet member for highways and transport at Staffordshire County Council, said: “Cycling for leisure and getting to work and school is a great activity that not only helps people stay healthy but can help to reduce air pollution and congestion on our busy roads.

“We’re working hard to make cycling an easy, safe, and appealing option for travelling to school and this is the perfect week to give it a go. I would definitely urge schools, parents and pupils to take part in the campaign and enjoy the many benefits of cycling.

“Cycle training through Bikeability in our schools is also helping keep pupils safer on their bikes and each year delivers training to around 10,000 children across the county. This not only teaches pupils how to ride safely on the roads but also helps encourage people to cycle when they are older.”

Bike to School Week is organised by Sustrans, the walking and cycling charity, and supported by the Bikeability Trust.

Schools can sign up to the campaign at bikeability.org.uk and access a range of promotional materials. People can also enter a competition to win a brand new Carrera Abyss bicycle suitable for eight to nine year olds.