A child scooting to school this morning hit a car, narrowly avoiding a very serious accident. Although the child suffered minor injuries, we are hugely relieved that the injuries were not more serious, or even fatal. We have had several parents and local residents in recent weeks who have shared concerns about dangerous cycling and scooting by KPNS pupils.

To protect our pupils, we will now insist that all pupils wear a cycle helmet when coming to school on a bike, skateboard or scooter. A few statistics to support this policy:

• Road casualties fell over the last decade in the UK but cyclist casualties increased. Cyclist deaths increased by 7% and serious injuries increased by 2%.
• Scientific research into bicycle helmets has shown they reduce the risk of head injury by 85%, brain injury by 88% and severe brain injury by at least 75%.
• 40% of pedal cyclists admitted to hospital in England suffer head injuries.

Before allowing your child to cycle or scoot to school please review the information below from the Child Accident Prevention Trust:

Your child’s first bike

By the age of five, many children will have started riding a tricycle, bicycle, bike with stabilisers or a balance bike. Bike helmets are a must every time they go cycling as they can prevent serious head injuries. It will also help children get into the habit of wearing a helmet if they see the adults around them wearing bicycle helmets. Local parks and gardens can be safe places to ride until children are old enough to cycle on the road.

Biking safety for children aged 7 to 10

Children have better coordination and control and are usually more confident cyclists by now. They’re still not ready to cycle in traffic, though, even if they’re with an adult. Remind them to wear a bike helmet every time they go out on their bikes. Children are ‘top-heavy’ and more likely to land on their heads if they fall off their bikes. Some children might need help doing up the straps and making sure the cycle helmet is secure.

Bikeability cycle training, age 11

Many children of 11 and over will want to cycle to school or go out on their bike with friends. It’s okay for them to ride on the road, but they should be properly trained and wear a helmet so they’re safe and can cope with traffic.

Following the accident today, we have arranged for Notts County Council Road Safety Team to visit KPNS on the 5/6/23 to talk to every class in school about road safety in an age-appropriate way.

We are also currently trying to arrange cycling proficiency for Y5 children.

Regards,

Mr Cresswell