By Julie Waters
INTREPID Kilcooley P7 pupils got their wheels in motion for their annual charity cycle to Holywood in a bid to boost their mental health.
This is the third year of the Kilcooley Connect Project which is based on the ‘Five Ways to Wellbeing – Be Active, Give, Keep Learning, Take Notice and Connect’.
The aim of the project is to support pupils as they look after their mental well-being, emphasising the positive impact of being kind to others and themselves.
This determined group of pupils have been clocking up the practice miles in the school cycle zone as well as enjoying several sunrise cycles along the coastal path – they even spotted two dolphins at Bangor’s Skippingstone beach.
Donations of long life food products were collected from the community and have been delivered to Team Haven to help the homeless and vulnerable.
On the day of their coastal path challenge, the 20 strong group of pupils were joined by five parents, teachers and cycling coach Jon The Pedaller.
Jonny Hall, Kilcooley Primary School teacher and wellbeing co-ordinator, praised his pupils for completing their charity cycle.
Mr Hall said: “The group of P7s built their confidence and stamina using the cycle zone in school during break and lunch time. They have taken part in several sunrise cycles to the coast, meeting at 6.15am, before heading back to begin their school day.
“One of the mornings was extra special when they were greeted by two dolphins playing at Skippingstone Beach. This was an experience never to forget.”
Mr Hall went on to say: “On the day we left Kilcooley Primary School at 9.15am to cycle to the coast. It is a shame we still have no safe cycling access to our beautiful coast. I really hope this changes in the future so more people can access it safely. Thankfully we had plenty of adult volunteers to help us.
“Once on the coast, the pupils were incredibly respectful to other coastal path users. One of our pupils said ‘everyone is so friendly’ and I replied ‘that is because you are all being respectful and friendly’.
“Ultimately, respect should be modelled by all of the adults around the children. I am so very grateful to all the adults that helped us on the cycle, but also to all the adults on the coastal path who shared kind words and complimented the children on their respect and kindness.
“This is exactly how we can foster mutual respect between all members of our society regardless of their age. Thank you.”
Said Mr Hall: “I must give a special mention to Jon The Pedaller. Again, he gave up his time to make the bikes safe to cycle and came along for the whole day. We honestly couldn’t do this without him.
“Our thanks also to the staff at the new ‘742’ coffee shop in Holywood. They very kindly gave all the pupils a hot chocolate for free to show their appreciation.”
He encouraged local parents to get involved in the Kilcooley Connect Project saying: “While the benefits are very clear to see for our pupils, I want to encourage as many parents as possible to get involved in the Kilcooley Connect Project.
“The mental health of children is connected to their parents’ mental health. We had five parents join us this year which was incredible. They were great role models for the children.
“We have been doing some work in school around respect and looking at this quote ‘If they respect you, respect them. If they disrespect you, still respect them. Do not allow the actions of others to decrease your good manners, because you represent yourself, not others.’ Always choose kindness.”
