LOCAL students are putting pedal to the metal after a £1,000 donation opened them up to the wonderful world of cycling.

Pupils at Lifton Community Academy, are enjoying new balance bikes and play equipment after the school secured £1,000 through Tesco’s Stronger Starts scheme.

The school has used the money to buy a set of balance bikes and helmets, which are already proving a big hit with younger children. Pupils have been using the bikes during playtime, developing confidence, coordination and early cycling skills.

As well as the balance bikes, the Tesco funding has also paid for new fine motor skill tables on the playground, helping to provide additional opportunities for children to develop dexterity and hand-eye coordination through play.

The funding was awarded through Tesco’s Stronger Starts scheme, where local projects are supported through grants chosen by customers who vote using tokens in their local store.

Adam Hill, headteacher at Lifton Community Academy, has described the joy and excitement that the new equipment has brought the schoolchildren.

He said: “The children are absolutely loving the new bikes and play equipment, and playtimes have been buzzing with excitement since they arrived. We’re very grateful to our school community for their support in helping us secure this funding through Tesco’s Stronger Starts scheme. It’s made a real difference to the children’s play experiences.”

Tracey Cleverly, CEO of Learning Academy Partnership, added that it is community funding like this which helps grow confidence among pupils and has a direct on their experiences in school.

She added: “This is a brilliant example of how community support can have a direct impact on children’s experiences in school. The funding is helping pupils stay active, build confidence and develop important skills through play.”