This week the Y6&7 pupils have been pedalling hard towards their Cycling Proficiency. Every child has their bike in school; brakes checked, bell ringing, chain oiled and helmet donned! Mrs Lavery, with the assistance of Mrs Devlin, have braved the elements to coach the children and put them through their cycling paces! (The children don't seem to feel the cold!)
The Cycling Proficiency Scheme (CPS) has operated in Northern Ireland schools for over 40 years, training more than 400,000 pupils. Early road safety education is crucial in keeping children safe on the roads. It helps develop their skills, increases their confidence as cyclists and identifies risks they may come across on the roads. In Moneynick we feel these are vital skills to be teaching our young people.
What does the scheme teach children?
The CPS teaches children who can already ride a bicycle, how to do so more safely. It covers what to wear, bicycle maintenance and the rules of the road.
It also allows children to practice cycling manoeuvres in a safe environment. Manoeuvres include starting off, slowing down, stopping and parking, turning right and left, overtaking parked cars, passing side roads and carrying out emergency stops safely. The CPS also provides information on the different types of cycle routes available.
As well as the practical aspects, pupils must pass a theory test on relevant sections of the Highway Code.
The scheme is best suited to children in primary years six and seven. To take part, a child must have a roadworthy bicycle and be able to ride it.
So boys and girls in Y6&7... where to next? .... 'Tour de France'?
