Charities encourage children to cycle to school

Sustrans and the Bikeability Trust have invited schools across the UK to take part in Bike to School Week at the end of September. 

The COVID-19 lockdown saw more people taking up cycling than ever before, however recent research has shown that only 2% of primary school children in England currently cycle to school

With children due to return to school next week, the Department for Education has warned that due to physical distancing restrictions on public transport, at least 50% of journeys to school that are two miles or less need to be walked or cycled in order to allow space on public transport for those who need to travel further.

Therefore Sustrans and the Bikeability Trust are encouraging children to cycle to school by celebrating the benefits of active travel for children.

To support schools during the Bike to School Week, Sustrans and Bikeability are offering a range of resources for teachers, including posters, classroom activities and video guides to help pupils check their bike is safe to ride.

Xavier Brice, CEO at Sustrans said: ‘We’re delighted to be able to run Bike to School Week again this year, after what has been a time of great uncertainty for all families across the country. And now, more than ever, it is vital that as many pupils as possible are able to cycle to school through the creation of dedicated routes, and removing cars from the school gates.

‘As we begin to emerge from the Covid-19 crisis, and families are looking for physically distanced ways to move around, it is essential steps are taken to ensure the school run is as safe and healthy as possible for everyone.

‘We are therefore calling on local authorities across the UK to work to help schools and families make active travel the safest and most appealing option. And for schools to get involved in the Bike to School Week when it launches in September.’

Emily Cherry, executive director at The Bikeability Trust added: ‘We are delighted to support Bike to School Week and work in partnership with Sustrans to celebrate cycling to school.

‘We hope that this week will inspire them to continue cycling throughout the school year and beyond.’

Photo Credit – Pixabay