Infrastructure Minister has today presented
certificates to pupils at Killean Primary School who have
successfully completed the Cycling Proficiency Scheme.
The Cycling Proficiency Scheme is made available to all primary
and special schools and helps pupils develop their cycling
skills, increase their confidence as cyclists and identify risks
they may come across on the roads.
Minister Kimmins said: “Cycling is a great way to travel and
improve health and I believe that children should learn of its
many benefits and how to cycle safely from an early age.
“This financial year I was pleased to be able to commit £90,000
to deliver the scheme and I am delighted that over 290 schools
responded to express an interest in participating.
“The Cycling Proficiency scheme is a valuable tool to help
prepare young people for making good road safety decisions while
cycling. By committing this funding, participating schoolchildren
can again learn the essential skills required to cycle safely and
with confidence. They are taught how to carry out various
manoeuvres, the importance of looking and listening while out
cycling, as well as helmet and bicycle checks and the proper use
of gears.”
The Scheme is delivered by teachers while the Department for
Infrastructure provide resources, instructor training and support
to teachers.
Notes to editors:
- Cycling Proficiency Scheme is a 12 lesson programme,
generally undertaken as an after schools activity, with most
lessons taking one hour.
- Pupil competence is measured either by continuous assessment
or through a final test depending on the preference of the
school.
- The initiative is most suited to Years 6 and 7 . Last year
around 4,000 school children participated in the Scheme.
