Earlier this year we sponsored a national competition that saw schools throughout the UK compete in a nationwide cycling initiative encouraging children to cycle to school.
Organised by charity Sustrans and funded by Bike Hub, the Big Pedal 2013 saw thousands of families leave the car and do the school run by bike or scooter from 28th Feb – 20th March. The competition was weighted according to the size of the school, so all contenders had a fair chance to win.
We sponsored the secondary school category donating one of our Carolina cycle shelters to the winning school, which was Stanley High School in Southport.
The shelter, which includes parking for up to ten bikes was installed by our team during the summer holidays to avoid disruption to pupils and staff. A week into the new term it was clear the shelter was already a huge success. We were delighted to see the rack adorned with a nice selection of bikes…
Working with many schools across Merseyside we make it easier for the children to cycle to school by installing bespoke bike shelters. We wanted to support The Big Pedal and enable more children to discover the fun and freedom of cycling to school, get fit and save money at the same time.
The average primary school journey is just 1.5 miles, a reasonable distance to walk or cycle, whilst evidence shows how children that cycle to school regularly are more active and better learners.
Nearly half of all children want to be able to get to school by bike but only four per cent actually do. The Big Pedal shows children and parents just how easy it is to get around on two wheels, it’s a fantastic initiative.
On Friday we organised a press shoot to capture the new shelter in its new home. Mary Kelland, Sustrans Bike It Officer and Chris Wilkinson, Head of PE at the school were joined by some pupils from the school who kindly volunteered to take part.
Thankfully the rain held off and we were able to get some great pictures.
Well done to all the schools that took part, and of course the organisers. A grand total of 847,725 journeys to school by bicycle and scooter were completed. That is a saving of 702 tonnes of carbon dioxide over the 15 days! Roll on next year’s now.
How The Big Pedal Works
Every journey to school by bike or scooter powers a school round a virtual UK stage race. There are some great prizes to be won once again, from bike storage to cycle stunt displays.
Schools also raised money for Sustrans on 28 February with a Superheroes Day, when pupils donated £1 to Sustrans to dress up as their favourite Superhero.
The race is funded by the Bike Hub and powered by Sustrans.
The Big Pedal Facts & Resources
- Benefits of Cycling to School
- Reduces traffic congestion around school gates
- Can lead to improved academic performance
- Helps children develop independence
- Increases levels of physical activity
- It’s sustainable and cheap
- It’s fun!
Top Tips for Children
- Stay visible using hi-vis vests and lights
- Make sure your bike is in working order
- Plan your route and let your parents or carers know
- Travel with a friend – it’s more fun that way!
Planning a Safe Journey
Sustrans provide free information for schools, parents, pupils, councils and anybody else interested in school travel initiatives. Find answers to all those niggling school travel questions in our comprehensive FAQ section. Keep up with all the latest school travel news and events here.
To get your school involved in the Big Pedal go to: http://bigpedal.org.uk/