Prep pupils take on Bikeability challenge

‘Bikeability’ is cycling proficiency for the 21st century, designed to give the next generation the skills and confidence to ride their bikes on today’s roads.

The ten- and eleven-year olds undertook a week of training led by the West Sussex County Council Road Safety Team, starting with bike checks and basic manoeuvres before moving on to riding on roads in Slinfold.

By the end of the week they were able to: Start and finish a journey by road, including passing parked or slower moving vehicles and side roads, make a U-turn, identify and react to hazards in the road, signal intentions to other road users , understand where to ride on the road, use junctions, including turning left and right into major and minor roads, decide whether a cycle lane will help a journey and use the Highway Code, particularly when it comes to understanding road signs.

The girls learnt an essential set of skills from road safety professionals which will not only build their confidence on the roads but also increase their safety awareness. An assessment took place on Friday June 5.

Report by Susan Farman. Pictures contributed by Farlington School.