Sustrans Big Pedal is the UK’s largest inter-school cycling, walking, wheeling and scooting challenge.
Schools compete to see who can record the greatest number of pupils, staff and parents making active journeys to school. The challenge will run from 19 to 30 April. It is free to enter and there are daily prizes to be won.
Sustrans Big Pedal contributes to your objectives by:
- improving health
- enhancing mental health and wellbeing
- reducing congestion
Participating in the Big Pedal also counts as a sustainable travel initiative, and contributes towards gaining Modeshift Stars accreditation.
With the coronavirus pandemic and subsequent lockdowns resulting in many spending more time at home, Sustrans Big Pedal 2021 has adapted to become more flexible, and pupils will be able to take part in the competition and supporting activities whether they are travelling to school or learning at home.
To support schools throughout Big Pedal, there’s a range of free resources available.
These include:
- Daily lesson plans suitable for the classroom and remote learning
- Daily physical activity challenges
- A school account on the Big Pedal website
- Resources to help schools communicate with families
The competition, which has now been running for 11 years, is fronted by Dame Sarah Storey, British Paralympian and 38-time world champion in cycling and swimming.
The theme of this year’s competition, ‘Amazing Journeys’, will encourage pupils to see their local areas from a different perspective, learn about the benefits of active travel and discover amazing journeys to school from around the world.
Become a Big Pedal Promoter
Local authorities (and other partners) can sign up for a Big Pedal promoter account. A promoter account enables a local authority to see how the schools in their area are doing, organise additional prize draws and competitions and gain access to promotional materials including email templates and information sheets.
If you would like to find out more about becoming a Big Pedal promoter contact Sustrans Big Pedal team on bigpedal@sustrans.org.uk and we will set you up with an account.
Further information about the event can be found at Big Pedal.
