Kismet opens its gates to riders

 

In term 3 2009 Kismet Park Primary School (KPPS) opened its gates for students to cycle to school and is already reaping the rewards of its active travel commitment.

In previous years the school had actively discouraged riding, however current Principal, Glenn McConnell and his staff knew it was time to turn thngs around. Together with the Ride2School team they developed an action plan to get riding to school back on the agenda. Many parents were particularly enthusiastic about the schools progressive decision.

 

Getting the pedals turning

In preparation for the launch students received their “Riding Passports” indicating their parents had considered the condition of their bikes and had given their children permission to ride to school. The passports have been really handy as they can also serve as part of an incentive program similar to the Frequent Rider Passports said PE teacher and Ride2School star teacher Bev Keenan.

KPPS staff wanted to do the very best they could by their students and started off hosting an afternoon where parents could bring their bikes up to the school for a maintenance check. The local police and parents helped out.

The launch of riding to school

The date was set and on the 31st of July 2009 KPPS officially launched its Ride2School Program and actively encouraged students to ride to school.

“We must have had over 65 students cycle to school that day”, beamed Mr McConnell. “The parents and the kids just love it”.

Student leadership group

PE teacher Marissa has coordinated a student leadership group who collect the student’s Hands Up results monthly. Whilst the schools active travel rate at 30% is already above the national average, the Ride2School team are looking to improve on this and have set the school an active travel goal of 50% by the end of the year. They are currently working on an Active Travel Trophy to award to the class with the best Hands Up results each month.

KPPS is also using parent helpers and Bike Ed trained teachers to roll out Bike Ed training to all its year 5 and 6 students.

Positive effects

The Ride2School program has also had a positive effect on traffic congestion at school pick up and drop off times. “I didn’t realise how much of a difference it would make to the congestion around the school. There are actually empty car parks and the traffic is much less busy” observed Mr McConnell.

Congratulations KPPS we look forward to seeing your great results. Keep the Hands Up results coming in!