A group of enthusiastic students from Charlton Manor Primary School, accompanied by Access Sport coaches and Cllr Averil Lekau, had an exciting BMX taster session last week as part of Cycle to School Week.
The session took place at the Hornfair Park BMX Track, a fantastic addition to the community created through the Council’s Olympic legacy ‘Playground to Podium’ scheme, to get young people in Royal Greenwich cycling.
Cllr Averil Lekau, Deputy Leader of the Council and Cabinet Member for Climate Change, Environment and Transport, said: “Witnessing the students’ confidence grow throughout the session was truly remarkable. They started on flat surface with BMX bikes and progressed to the BMX track. Cycling is a remarkable activity that not only boosts confidence but also fosters teamwork, resilience, and a healthy lifestyle. It’s heartening to see these young riders embrace the challenges of the track with such enthusiasm.
“Sessions like these not only offer enjoyable experiences for our students but also play a vital role in advocating for sustainable transport. Our Transport Strategy underlines our commitment to empower residents of all ages, encouraging a shift away from private car use and promoting walking and cycling as healthier alternatives.”
Tess Coller, Health & Well-Being Leader at Charlton Manor Primary School, said: “Cycle to School Week offers a fantastic opportunity for kids to experience cycling beyond the ordinary. We value our partnership with the local council, as they’ve supported us in various ways, from bike maintenance to pedal my wheels and bike markets. Collaborating with the council helps promote cycling, an essential life skill for every child. Riding a bike is not only better for the environment but also for their health, and that’s why we are passionate about it.”
Sarah from Charlton Manor Primary School, aged 9 said: “It was very fun, we learned more techniques how to ride bikes. It was fun to get to pretend to race your friends on the BMX track. The thing I find very fun – if I try new things, if I fall down, I really like falling down because that means I tried my best at doing it.”
Vaidas from Charlton Manor Primary School, aged 9 said: “At first it was kind of like, scary, but at the same time I wanted to do it. When I got enough courage to do it, then I just kind of learned it straight away. That made me feel really happy, it was really inspirational.”
