The sound of spinning wheels and cheerful laughter filled the air at Aspley Special School as students, teachers, and police officers came together to celebrate National Ride2School Day on 21 March.
Read: Aspley Special School Empowers Students with Road Safety Awareness on National Road Safety Week
This annual event, Australia’s largest celebration of active travel, encourages young people to embrace cycling as a fun and healthy way to get around.
For the students of Aspley Special School, the day was not just about riding bikes but about experiencing the joy of movement and learning essential road safety skills. Among those leading the festivities was Adopt-a-Cop (AAC) Sergeant Jodie, who has made this event a much-loved tradition at the school.
Accompanied by her gentle and affectionate dog, Charlie, Sergeant Jodie helped create a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere where every student could participate at their own pace.
The celebration saw a strong presence from specialist police officers, including members of the Fortitude Valley Bike Squad and Highway Patrol. Officers Chris and Greg engaged the students with important lessons on bike safety, covering helmet use, road rules, and the importance of sticking to designated bike paths. Their interactive session helped the students build confidence and awareness while on their bikes.
A highlight of the day was the arrival of Sergeant Phil on his police motorbike, sirens blaring and lights flashing, much to the delight of the students. The opportunity to sit on the motorbike and explore its features was a thrilling experience for many, adding an extra layer of excitement to the celebration.
Beyond the fun and festivities, National Ride2School Day at Aspley Special School underscored the importance of active travel in fostering independence, confidence, and well-being among students. With support from Transport and Main Roads, students also learned how to correctly use school crossings, reinforcing key road safety practices.
Read: Aspley Special School Finds a Friend in the Force
As the event came to a close, the smiles on students’ faces were a testament to the success of the day. Whether it was through riding, learning, or simply enjoying a quiet moment with Charlie the dog, every child had a chance to participate in a way that suited them best. With another Ride2School Day in the books, Aspley Special School continues to champion inclusivity, safety, and the joy of movement for all its students.
Published 2-April-2025
