Warwick primary school teachers ditch the cars and hop on bikes for daily commute

Two teachers at a Warwick primary school were among those to hop on the saddle and take part in this year’s 'Bike to School Week'.

Bike to School Week took place from September 28 to October 2.

But for Anna Cowcher and Laura Everett it wasn’t just a token gesture - the pair have been cycling to the classroom since ditching the car in favour of two wheels for their daily commute to Heathcote Primary School.

Anna, a reception teacher at the Vickers Way school, explained that their efforts had already prompted a number of their pupils to also hop on their bikes.

She said: “It started as a fitness thing. Laura and I live quite close together so, when school returned, we decided to cycle the three miles each way.

"We thought it might be a way of losing those ‘lockdown pounds’.

“Now, after a few weeks, we have noticed more and more bikes appearing in the two bike shelters we have at the school.

"While 'Bike To School Week' is a good way to promote cycling, we’re hopeful that the children - and maybe more members of staff - will get into the cycling habit.”

Laura, a higher level teaching assistant, added: “It feels really positive to be doing something good for the environment as well, not to mention the money we’ve saved on petrol.”

Figures released by Sustrans, organisers of the annual bike-friendly campaign, show that just two per cent of primary school children in England currently cycle to school.

Heathcote Primary School will be holding an Open Week from Monday, October 19.

Anyone interested in taking a socially distanced tour around the classrooms and outdoor facilities including the forest school should email: admin2056@welearn365.com or call 01926 290330.