Pedal Ready, steady...
From first wobbles to “I did it” moments- Bikeability is full of experiences that build confidence and provide joy children never forget.
Bikeability is a national programme that helps children build the skills and confidence they need to cycle safely. Level 1 & 2 is offered to all pupils in Years 5 and 6 delivered by our Active Travel & Road Safety Education team. Children learn skills in balance, control and safe road skills that help them become more independent riders. Bikes, helmets and adaptive bikes can be provided if needed, enabling more children can take part. Cycling supports children’s wellbeing by keeping them active, improving their sleep quality and building their confidence. There are a range of cycles available including trikes, side by sides and a wheelchair loader among others offering different levels of support. If your child’s school offers Bikeability, make sure you sign them up so they don’t miss out. At St Peter’s in Edgmond, Tommy took part in Bikeability using one of the adapted bikes provided by the Team. The adapted bike meant he could join his friends on the playground and on the roads, taking part in every session. With the adapted bike, Tommy was able to join his peers in the instructor led sessions. He practised starting, stopping signalling using his brakes and riding with his friends. Learning the same skills as everyone else at a pace that suited him. His mum, Jo, said he “absolutely loved riding the bike” and came home each day excitedly talking about what he’d learned. By the end of the week, he was a “supper happy boy” and even became a little “obsessed with bike helmets” after enjoying himself so much After the school sessions, the family found out that adapted bikes are also available to hire at Telford Bike Hub in Telford Town Park which is also run by the same team. Over the October half-term, Tommy spent two more days out on a bike, building his confidence and enjoying getting outdoors. Jo said the support “made the whole experience possible” and helped them discover options they didn’t know existed. The support made Tommy’s week unforgettable. As Jo said “The Bikeability week meant everything to Tommy”. Being able to ride with his friends and enjoy the sense of freedom “meant everything to him.”
“Cycling is an important life skill that everyone should have the opportunity
to learn and Bikeability provides children a safe way to experience riding and become future cyclists. We’re pleased to support a programme that helps young people feel more confident and independent. ”
Councillor Ollie Vickers Telford & Wrekin Council Cabinet Member for the Economy and Transport.
Find out about more about Bikeability www.telford.gov.uk/bikeability To find out more information about school sessions or bike hires, email roadsafety@telford.gov.uk
TOTALLY TELFORD
7
Made with FlippingBook interactive PDF creator