We are writing to ask for your support following an increase in concerns regarding the way in which a small number of pupils are riding bicycles when travelling to and from school.
Over recent weeks, we have received a number of reports and complaints from members of the public about pupils riding without sufficient care or awareness of other road and pavement users. Concerns have included pupils:
- riding on pavements without due consideration for pedestrians;
- travelling at speed in areas where there are pedestrians;
- pulling out onto or crossing busy roads without looking properly;
- riding in a way that puts themselves, other pupils, motorists and members of the public at risk.
Unfortunately, this is not simply a matter of inconvenience. We have recently been made aware of an incident in which a member of the public was knocked over by a pupil riding a bicycle. We are therefore increasingly concerned that, without greater care, a much more serious accident could occur.
We fully support pupils who choose to cycle to school. It is a healthy and environmentally friendly way to travel and can help pupils develop independence. However, with that independence comes a responsibility to travel safely and to show consideration for others.
If your son cycles to school, we would be very grateful if you could speak with him about his cycling behaviour and reinforce the importance of travelling safely. In particular, please remind him to slow down around pedestrians, remain alert to his surroundings, take particular care at junctions and when entering main roads, and follow the Highway Code.
We will also be reinforcing these expectations directly with pupils in school. Pupils should be aware that their conduct when travelling to and from school remains important, particularly when they are identifiable as pupils of The Mosslands School. Where the school becomes aware of a pupil riding dangerously, recklessly or without due consideration for other road users or pedestrians, we will investigate the matter and, where appropriate, apply sanctions in line with the school’s Behaviour Policy. Parents/carers will also be contacted where there are concerns about an individual pupil’s cycling behaviour.
This is not intended to discourage pupils from cycling to school. Rather, we want every pupil who chooses to cycle to understand that unsafe or irresponsible riding which places themselves or others at risk will be taken seriously.
Our priority is the safety of our pupils and the wider community. We would much rather address these concerns now, with the support of families, than see a pupil or member of the public seriously injured.
Thank you, as always, for your support in helping us keep our pupils and our local community safe.
