A cycling trip to Firepower was the highlight of a programme of activities for youngsters from Hawksmoor School in Thamesmead which aims to teach them about the area’s history and give them a better understanding of the environment and the benefits of living in an area rich in open spaces, canals and lakes.

Sixty 10-11 year olds from the school in Bentham Road took part in the project, called ‘T’riffic Thamesmead’, a joint initiative between Trust Thamesmead and local schools which has now been running for three years.

Year 6 class teacher Kemi Okhani said: “The theme of the programme of activities was to ‘sell’ Thamesmead to young people and their families.

“It was a great project because although most of them had little interest in the subject at the beginning, by the end they were brimming with enthusiasm and saw the area in a totally different light.

“They produced a radio advert, visited the local parks, went kayaking on Southmere Lake and questioned local people to find out what they would like to see in Thamesmead by visiting two other local schools and the supermarket in the town centre.

“In addition thirty of the youngsters passed their cycling proficiency test which meant they could ride their bikes to Woolwich.

“The round trip was led by Peter McDonald Smith, who is a cycling proficiency training coach for Greenwich, supported by two community police officers who we would like to thank for their support. Members of Hawksmoor School staff also assisted on the day.”

Trust Thamesmead Chief Executive Mick Hayes said “The T’riffic Thamesmead project is proving to be a tremendous success and we are delighted to support it. Whilst every child taking part receives a T’riffic Thamesmead badge as a souvenir, the value of the experiences and knowledge they gain from the project cannot be underestimated.”