High pass rates in traffic awareness among pupils
Flanders’ schoolkids are perfectly fit to stay safe when walking and cycling, according to the results of practical exams
‘Safe road users’
The agency organises the exams with the support of the government of Flanders and insurance company Ethias. Some 30,400 students from primary and secondary education took one or more of the practical, on-the-street exams, about one-third more than the previous school year.
The Big Pedestrian Exam tests whether fourth-year primary school kids have the basic skills required to be safe walking in traffic areas. More than 14,780 pupils participated in the exam and nearly 93% passed.
The Big Cycling Exam is for pupils in the sixth year of primary school. About the same number took the test as the Pedestrian Exam, and 90% passed.
The FietSOmeter targets students from the first two years of secondary school, testing their skills for cycling in groups. About 900 students took the test, and more than 90% of them passed.
Flemish mobility minister Ben Weyts said that the results are very encouraging. “Children and youngsters are very vulnerable in traffic, and this practical traffic awareness education should prepare them to become safe road users,” he said.
Photo courtesy VSV
