Students set safe wheels in motion

Young cyclists at Reigate Grammar School are the first in Surrey to pass the Government’s new ‘Bikeability’ cycle assessment following a course run at the school by trainers from local organisation Cycle-Pro. The new assessment, which surpasses the old style Cycling Proficiency Test, concentrates on training in real traffic conditions with students having to prove to instructors that they can manage everyday road conditions safely before passing their test.

Run over 5 days, the Cycle-Pro course took students out and about on the roads of Reigate, under the tuition of trainers after an initial assessment of basic skills in the school playground.

Commented Mrs Susannah Clark, Head of First Form: “As well as being a sustainable way to travel to school, cycling is obviously great for fitness and the students’ growing sense of independence. However, even on local roads traffic can be both daunting and dangerous which is why we chose this particular course for the students to give them expert guidance and experience of the roads under close supervision. It’s been a real success and we’re hoping to repeat it in future years.”

Added Anne Banks of Cyclepro: “We are very pleased to offer this excellent course to the pupils of Reigate Grammar School. Bikeability is not just about teaching children to ride a bike, it’s about introducing them to cycling as an every day activity, an alternative mode of transport and an enjoyable pass time which brings a healthier life style and ultimately lots of fun.”

October 07