KILCOOLEY Primary School pupils got into gear for their annual charity cycle along the North Down coastal path to Seapark in Holywood.
The energetic P7 pupils took part in the cycle from their school as one of the key events in the Kilcooley Connect project. Rooted in the Five Ways to Wellbeing – Be Active, Give, Take Notice, Connect and Keep Learning – the project aims to improve overall wellbeing through meaningful action and connection.
Over the past seven weeks, pupils have been preparing for their charity cycle, with sunrise cycles before school, break-time rides in their cycle zone, and an outdoor learning day at Ward Park, which they also cycled to.
They collected food donations from pupils, staff, and the wider community, which were delivered to Team Haven, an organisation that supports people who are homeless or vulnerable. The food donations will be used to prepare meals for those in need.
The children were joined by parents and volunteers along the scenic coastal path, with pupil Braydon Reilly saying: “I loved every minute of it.”Showing his determination, young Cruz Shaw said: “I thought my legs were going to give up but I kept going.” Zara Mills enjoyed helping others saying: “I felt so good to give the donations to people that need it.”
P7 teacher Jonny Hall, said the highlight was seeing how one event in the project was able to connect so many people together to help those less fortunate. “It shows us just how loving, kind and inclusive our community can be,” he said.“As the group cycled along the coastal path, they were met with smiles and compliments from pedestrians and dog walkers, highlighting the respectful and joyful atmosphere of the event.
Looking ahead, the pupils are already excited for their next challenge: cycling to Belfast in April.” Mr Hall said a special thanks must go to the Ards and North Down Cycle Campaign for their expert maintenance and support, Jon the Pedaler who provided some of the bikes for parents to take part, as well as parents, staff, and whole school community for their kindness and encouragement.
