Cycling tests possible again: children enthusiastic
EDUCATION
Experts say that road safety for young people is now improving again. After two years of lockdowns, elementary school students are finally allowed to practice and train for the cycling test again. We accompanied boys and girls from the Salzburg-Taxham elementary school.
Fourth classes of elementary schools in the city of Salzburg are again being prepared for the cycling test by police officers in Stölzlpark today. And there is a lot to learn, says the student Anna: “We have discussed all the traffic signs and signs, including the stop sign.” Flora refers to the special rules when turning left: “We also learned in particular that an intersection also has the shape of a T.”
Her colleague Theo emphasizes that the legal rules are very important: “If we stop, we should always put one foot on the ground to be safe – or two.”
Praise from the police course instructor
After the theory, in which the traffic rules are taught, the officials go to the test track for the practical exercises. Because of the lockdowns, this process has not been possible for two years.
The police had to convey the theory via the Internet, as district inspector Florian Fellner explains: “You all worked really well. That was flawless. The parents had to take over the part during the lockdowns where the children get to know the practical test route, where they look at the course. Now it’s much easier for the children, but also for us. You can ask and answer questions better. And we then take a close look at the situation on the track and explain what needs to be done.”
Children like the lecturer
In any case, the girls and boys are very happy that they can now prepare for the cycling test with the police as usual, as Adele explains: “I wasn’t very nervous before. The policeman is also very nice.”
And Helena emphasizes that she has a good feeling for the route: “I think it will work.” After the Easter holidays, the first fourth-graders will take part in the cycling test. Until then, you can still learn and practice at home.