Bikeability is today’s cycle training programme. It’s like cycling proficiency, but better! It’s about gaining practical skills and understanding how to cycle on today’s roads. Bikeability gives everyone the skills and confidence for all kinds of cycling.

There are three Bikeability levels, each designed to improve cycling skills, no matter what is known already. Levels 1, 2 and 3 take trainees from the basics of balance and control, all the way to planning and making an independent journey on busier roads.

In year 5 this hald term, we are focusing on Levels 1 and 2.

Level 1

At Level 1 new riders learn to control and master their bikes in a space away from traffic such as a playground or closed car park. Trainees will usually be trained in a group of 3-12, though individual training may also be available in your area. At Level 1 you can:

• prepare yourself and your bike for cycling
• get on and off your bike without help
• start off, pedal and stop with control
• pedal along, use gears and avoid objects
• look all around and behind, and control the bike
• share space with pedestrians and other cyclists

Level 2

Level 2 takes place on local streets, giving trainees a real cycling experience. Trainees learn how to deal with traffic on short journeys such as cycling to school or the local shops. Trainees are usually trained in small groups – up to 6 trainees per instructor – though individual training may also be available. At Level 2 you can:

• prepare for on-road cycling
• start and finish an on-road journey
• recognise typical hazards
• let others know what you are about to do
• know where to ride on the road
• pass parked vehicles and side roads

Find out more information at this website http://bikeability.org.uk/

An eye-opening and ground-shaking day was had by all Year 4s at London’s Natural History Museum on Friday 03.02.17. Our day started with a journey that carried us up through a gigantic metal globe that enabled us to imagine we were travelling through the very centre of the earth itself. When we reached the Volcanoes and Earthquake exhibit we were given the chance, through hands on learning experiences, to examine real volcanic rock, explore how the different tectonic plates move and find out more about the dangerous job of a volcanologist.

The ‘Earth’s treasury’ section drew gasps of awe from all as we examined the array of colourful minerals, gems and rocks on display. We were particularly impressed when we spotted some very special fluorescent minerals that were able to glow in the dark. We were also amazed to discover a mineral that was the real life Kryptonite! ‘There were lots of beautiful jewels, minerals and even diamonds’ Jara.