Angus College launches innovative Balanceability cycle programme
Balanceability - the UK's only accredited learn to cycle programme for children aged 2 ½ to 6 years old has been officially launched in Scotland at Angus College.
The innovative programme, which has been supported by Olympic Champion cyclist Chris Boardman MBE, has been launched at the College's nursery.
Balanceability combines unique ergonomic balance bikes with a programme of activity that builds confidence, spatial awareness and dynamic balance skills enabling young children to learn to cycle without ever needing stabilisers.
The programme, which was funded through the efforts of HND students who carried out cycling-themed fundraising activities, is being run by final year HND students and Sport and Fitness Lecturer Sarah Ramminger.
Dawn Hayes, whose son Luke attends the nursery, said: “The balance bike provides a fun way for Luke to learn to ride and is so much easier and less frustrating than having to worry about pedalling and balancing at the same time. I can’t believe how quickly he has been able to learn and how confident he is already now as a result.”
The programme is aligned with the Government's 'Start Active, Stay Active' policy which calls for increased physical activity for young children. Balanceability has been awarded a Kitemark by the Professional Development Board for Physical Education and is in line with the curriculum guidance for Foundation Stage pupils.
The programme is supported by Olympic champion Chris Boardman MBE. He says: "Balanceability is the fundamental starting point for children's cycling and an excellent opportunity to promote active lifestyles at the earliest possible age. I can see it also provides a natural lead into Bikeability for schools and I would encourage all schools to give children the opportunity to use balance bikes."
For more information about the programme, please contact Dr Sarah Ramminger, 01241 432802.
Steff Lewis-Sabey
PR & Social Media Manager
Petersen
T: 01242 573311
lewis-sabey@petersencreative.com
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