THIS year Darlington schools have been using the roads instead of the playground for their cycling proficiency.

Our cycling course lasted six weeks. We were split into groups of four, each group with an instructor. The things we learnt were remembering to look behind and checking for anything coming before moving off or when stopping. We also learnt left turns, right turns and u-turns. I think cycling proficiency is a great idea for child safety.

The nursery and transition children were made aware of road safety with a visit by the local patrol crossing officer. The children used the infant playground, which is marked out with a road and crossings for their playtimes.

It was great fun for them to take on the role of the lollipop man.

Michael Whitaker, year si