Children love learning to cycle for many reasons…it’s fast, it’s fun, and it gives them freedom to explore. But when they’re learning, it’s really important that children are given the important information they need to stay safe.
We’re pleased to let you know that in the last academic year (2022/23) 762 children received cycling safety awareness training in Wrexham schools. They were taught practical skills to allow them to cycle safely and confidently on today’s roads.
Cllr Phil Wynn, Lead Member for Education, said: “For many parents and carers the thought of their children cycling can be scary, so we’re delighted that 762 children received the cycling safety awareness training last year. They have learnt important skills and good habits that will help to keep them safe into the future.”
Cllr Hugh Jones, Lead Member for responsibility for Road Safety, said: “We want children to be free to explore, but we want them to be safe when doing so. Teaching children about road safety allows them to enjoy the freedom of cycling whilst having the skills and knowledge to stay safe.”
Mark Jones of Seiclo Clwyd, said “Our company are very pleased to have won the contract to continue to provide cycle training for Wrexham County’s schools for another year. We’re already out delivering to schools and love seeing the pupils develop their skills and enjoying the sessions.”
How to stay safe
Here are some basics rules that you should encourage children to follow when they are learning to cycle:
- don’t jump red lights or cycle on the pavement unless it’s a designated cycle path
- signal clearly at all times
- ride in a position where you can see and be seen
- make eye contact with other road users, especially at junctions, then you know they’ve seen you
- if you’re riding at night always use a working white front light and red backlight, plus a red rear reflector (it’s the law)
Advice for drivers
Drivers are asked to be mindful of some simple actions which can help make the road a safer place:
- be patient with cycle users, especially young riders who need to develop their confidence
- as per the Highway Code, drivers should leave at least 1.5 metres when overtaking cyclists at speeds of up to 30mph, and give them more space when overtaking at higher speeds
- always overtake with caution, and only overtake a cyclist when it’s safe and legal to do so. If you’re on a narrow road, approaching a hill or located near a blind turn, then you should rule it out entirely
- take extra care to look out for cycle users at junctions
- leave a safe gap and check for any cyclists on the inside of any traffic you’re crossing
For more tips take a look at UK government’s THINK! campaign which contains lots of useful advice.
