Riding for focus

Based on the American Outride Programme, staff and pupils alike are trialling a ‘Riding for Focus’ intervention every Friday morning – whatever the weather!

The initiative aims to improve social, emotional, and cognitive health in children, and Mr McDermott, a keen cyclist, is piloting the programme this term. We are truly on-board with Outride’s mission as they believe that “bicycles have the power to make lives better beyond winning races – they bring people and communities together, motivate us to become better humans and help us to take advantage of what the world has to offer… We believe that bicycles not only have the ability to improve the health of our young, but also bring the power of opportunity, agency, and freedom to those who have access to the power of two wheels.”

“After a cycle, I always feel happier, focused, and energised, and I hope that by implementing this fantastic idea, children will reap the benefits. The academy has provided bikes, helmets, and waterproofs to ensure we can persevere whatever nature throws our way. We look forward to rolling this opportunity out to more pupils, in the coming months!” Mr McDermott, Former Teacher and Beyond the Four Walls Lead.