Bikes in Schools is a great way to get kids outside and active. We all know the benefits that come with a bit of fresh air and physical activity, throw in some fun and the positive outcomes are many. We constantly hear stories of how riding bikes at school has improved a child’s confidence and behaviour.
“The best-ever strategy in minimising classroom behavioural issues, get them outside in the environment.”
Students involved in the regular monitoring and maintenance of the bikes have a vested interest in them, they learn about the importance of looking after property, how bikes and the various components work, and gain valuable skills in the process.
“Once he had helped me change a tyre he understood how much work was involved and went from throwing the bikes down when he had finished to policing the kids doing skids.”
When the location allows school bikes have the added advantage of providing a way of taking students outside of the school grounds to attend other curriculum-related events and activities. Going by bike can reduce the cost of needing to hire vans and buses and reduce your carbon emissions in the process. The resilience and sense of achievement students can get from such an activity is fantastic.
Saint Francis Xavier School has used its school bikes on numerous occasions to take students to events and activities outside of the school grounds. The proximity of the school to the Kamo Shared Path presents many opportunities.
With the loss of the Weetbix Tryathlon here in Northland many schools are running their own events within their school grounds. Schools with bikes have the advantage that everyone can participate whether they have a bike or not. To create a bit of extra fun some schools invite other schools without a bike track to join their day.
