Coopers Lane Primary School's Bike Bus
- Sep 5, 2023
The resounding cheers of excited children echoed through the air as Coopers Lane Primary School celebrated another triumph with their beloved Bike Bus initiative. The school community came together to mark their achievements, and the joyous occasion was a testament to the spirit of adventure, camaraderie, and a commitment to a cleaner, healthier environment.
The Bike Bus initiative, founded by Jacks Lampon, Anna Moore, Ben Donaldson, Tom Humphrey and Tom Crispin, commenced its journey on September 22, 2022, coinciding with World Car Free Day. With a modest start of just 13 participants - 8 children and 5 adults - the initiative has grown into a remarkable movement. By the last day of term, July 21, 2023, the Bike Bus proudly welcomed 85 participants, with 50 children and 35 adults joining the ranks. Among the notable participants was Louise Krupski, Labour's Cabinet Member for Environment and Climate, embodying the initiative's focus on environmental consciousness.
Meeting once a week in various traffic-free locales, the Bike Bus has been a beacon of accessibility and inclusivity. From parks to cul-de-sacs, the chosen locations aim to accommodate as many children as possible, fostering a sense of community and active participation. The weekly gatherings also provide a platform for social interaction, nurturing connections alongside promoting sustainable travel to school.
Jacks Lampon, commented, “Children are so desperate to have a fun and safe way to travel to school. Watching them take such joy from choosing to participate in a healthy and sustainable school journey is so rewarding for all of the adults involved. They are making lifelong memories and as a society, we need to embrace this enthusiasm and provide them with the infrastructure that they deserve.”
In the heart of Grove Park, in the London Borough of Lewisham, cycling with children has been a challenge due to inadequate infrastructure. Only two cycle lanes exist in the area, and their effectiveness remains limited, with one persistently obstructed by parked vehicles. The dedicated efforts of founding members Dr. Anna Moore and Ben Donaldson led to the creation of a School Street, offering a safer passage for the Bike Bus. Dr Anna Moore's commitment to clean air and the environment has earned her recognition, including appearances in a Mayor of London video and a Sky News podcast.
The transformative impact of the Bike Bus is evident through the heartening stories of participants. Esther Alvarez shared how her son's participation renewed his passion for cycling, boosting his self-esteem and confidence. Vanessa Legouix recounted her daughter's swift progress from learning to ride to confidently joining the Bike Bus, inspiring her own cycling journey. Tom Royal highlighted the initiative's role in teaching children safe cycling practices, thereby empowering them to embrace biking as an alternative to conventional transportation.
The initiative's success can be attributed to the collective efforts of the Coopers Lane Primary School community. Their determination to overcome infrastructural challenges and promote sustainable transportation reflects their commitment to fostering positive change for future generations.
As the Bike Bus journey continues to inspire, the Coopers Lane Primary School community stands as a shining example of how grassroots initiatives can pave the way for a greener, healthier, and more connected future.
Photo credit to Donna Ford at Donna Ford Creative Portrait, Branding & Event Photographer
