A new set of cycling-focused classroom resources for primary school children has proved a big hit with teachers since its launch last September, with over 4,000 schools using pedal power to accelerate learning and helping gain Healthy Schools accreditation. Cycling England is now urging more scho More…ols to make the most of the longer days and sunshine to take advantage of the varied benefits cycling both outdoors and within the classroom. The classroom resources, aimed at 9-11 year olds, were developed by Cycling England to bring the benefits of cycling to life in the classroom. They are designed to complement Bikeability - Cycling Proficiency for the 21st century and the official, Government-sponsored scheme for cycle training. Cycling England aims to get more people cycling, more safely and more often and will be funding Bikeability training for half a million children by 2012. The interactive, cross-curriculum classroom resources provide the opportunity for pupils to learn about the benefits of cycling for their health, the environment and the wider community. They contain colourful presentations to stimulate discussion and debate on the benefits of cycling, as well as fun interactive games and whole-class activities, supported by comprehensive lesson plans and teacher’s notes. Also provided is an inspiring set of materials to help teachers encourage cycling within the school. A toolkit containing practical templates, activity sheets, posters and stickers is available to order from the Bikeability website. The materials are designed to fit into the existing curriculum, with clear links to Design and Technology, PSHE, PE and Geography. They also help schools achieve the objectives of the National Healthy Schools programme, including physical activity and emotional health and wellbeing. Denise Ward, Learning Mentor at Devonshire Hill Primary School in Tottenham, in Haringey, said: “The resources not only help us use cycling as a PE activity, but also cover a variety of curriculum areas to ensure that children understand the long term benefits of a healthy and active lifestyle. We’ve had an excellent reaction from pupils – the resources are engaging and really bring the whole class together.” Morgan Richards, a pupil at the school said: “It’s great to talk about bikes and I really enjoy working on our cycle projects with Miss Ward and Mr Appleton. I’ve already done my Bikeability training so I can now ride my bike even better and my mum is now happy about me cycling outside of school. I managed to get my badge and certificate in Level One and I’m really proud of what I’ve done.” Phillip Darnton, chairman of Cycling England, said: “Active children are not only healthier, they also learn better. That’s why Cycling England is helping teachers promote a cycling culture in their schools, not only in the classroom but also through Bikeabilty training, which gives children the skills to ride their bikes safely and confidently. “The resources are available whether or not your school already has a cycle training programme in place, and they are an ideal introduction to help children understand the wide reaching benefits of cycling before embarking on a practical cycle training programme.” For more information and to access the free classroom resources visit http://www.bikeability.org.uk/teachers