'The Cycling Reporter' Talk for Schools
“Leon's cycling journey round the world is unquestionably an incredible feat; he spoke inspirationally and energetically about the difficulties he faced and the richness of the experiences he had. The talk clearly had a substantial effect on his audience: a number of boys approached him afterwards to ask him questions about his journey, and I think he inspired several to consider similarly adventurous possibilities in the future."
- Brendan Cooper
Eton College
- Brendan Cooper
Eton College
"Leon is an inspiration to young people in general, not just young cyclists. He encourages us to persevere to achieve goals; to go out and embrace the world; and to have a good time while we do it."
- David Robert
Sustrans
- David Robert
Sustrans
Leon gives educational lectures to schools based on his expeditions; using his extensive experience in classrooms and with young people he presents an inspirational and instructive talk covering (but not restricted to) topics such as geography, history, facing challenges, ambition, risk-taking, morality, and of course a healthy dose of adventure.
This lecture, 'The Cycling Reporter,' is based on his largest expedition to this point - a 14,000 mile solo and unsupported bicycle journey from New York to Hong Kong covering five continents and taking over a year to complete.
Along the way he was shooting footage for an upcoming documentary, and is also now writing a book about the journey.
Along the way he was shooting footage for an upcoming documentary, and is also now writing a book about the journey.
This presentation for pupils is a complete educational experience - it combines exciting stories of adventure with a strong message about all the possibilities that are out there for us, whatever our interests, and the importance of giving 100% to our endeavours. It is a thoroughly entertaining session for the pupils and helps them to absorb the lessons while still having fun!
The Cycling Reporter' talk is suitable for all school age children from 4-18.
The talk will usually take the form of a 45 minute lecture with time for questions afterwards, or can be booked for half and full days of speaking.
The Cycling Reporter' talk is suitable for all school age children from 4-18.
The talk will usually take the form of a 45 minute lecture with time for questions afterwards, or can be booked for half and full days of speaking.
Selected References (More available upon request)
“Leon McCarron spoke on 4th October 2011 to approximately 500 of our Sixth Form students. His cycling journey round the world is unquestionably an incredible feat; he spoke inspirationally and energetically about the difficulties he faced and the richness of the experiences he had. The talk clearly had a substantial effect on his audience: a number of boys approached him afterwards to ask him questions about his journey, and I think he inspired several to consider similarly adventurous possibilities in the future. To quote Ralph Waldo Emerson, as Leon himself did this morning: ‘Nothing great was ever achieved without enthusiasm.’"
- Brendan Cooper
Eton College
- Brendan Cooper
Eton College
"The boys, parents and staff at the Pilgrims' School were delighted to enjoy an hour of adventure, philosophy and enthusiasm with Mr Leon McCarron. His story was good enough and well told enough to bind to silence and wonder wriggly eight year olds and ancient creaking grandparents. We were lucky to have him visit."
- Geoffrey Hammond, Deputy Headmaster
Pilgrims' School Winchester
- Geoffrey Hammond, Deputy Headmaster
Pilgrims' School Winchester
To celebrate Bike Week 2011, seven 'Bike It' schools in Belfast received a visit from Leon McCarron. Special assemblies were held for pupils, and Leon talked about his extraordinary journey along with a slideshow of photographs. Pupils and teachers at both primary and secondary schools enthusiastically reported back to me how much they all enjoyed his presentation. I would highly recommend Leon's inspiring tales on two wheels to any school!
- Beth Harding, Bike It Officer
Sustrans
Leon presented his information to our whole primary school in a friendly, humorous and interesting manner and had a wonderful rapport with the children. He used an interactive whiteboard to display the magnificent photographs which captured the drama of the many tales he told.
Our pupils were enthralled by Leon’s experience and it has sparked an interest in many of our pupils to cycle. Leon’s visit covered many areas of the curriculum, in particular geographically, artistically and culturally. I would strongly encourage other schools to avail of this fabulous and unique presentation.
- Carolyn Dixon, Headteacher
Dalriada School
Our pupils were enthralled by Leon’s experience and it has sparked an interest in many of our pupils to cycle. Leon’s visit covered many areas of the curriculum, in particular geographically, artistically and culturally. I would strongly encourage other schools to avail of this fabulous and unique presentation.
- Carolyn Dixon, Headteacher
Dalriada School
Hi Leon
I would like to express my personal thanks and the appreciation of the school for all you did for us on our Cycle to School day.
The fact that it was such a great success is in no small measure because of you!! Both staff and pupils alike found you inspirational, genuine and such a role model for children and young people.
Your photography and motivational quotes helped set the tone not just for the morning but helped set the tone for a tremendous finish to our school year. We really do appreciate all you did and wish you well over the coming months.
I know we will be having you visit again!!
-Stephen Harrison, Principal
Gilnahirk Primary School
I would like to express my personal thanks and the appreciation of the school for all you did for us on our Cycle to School day.
The fact that it was such a great success is in no small measure because of you!! Both staff and pupils alike found you inspirational, genuine and such a role model for children and young people.
Your photography and motivational quotes helped set the tone not just for the morning but helped set the tone for a tremendous finish to our school year. We really do appreciate all you did and wish you well over the coming months.
I know we will be having you visit again!!
-Stephen Harrison, Principal
Gilnahirk Primary School
I wanted to thank you for your visit to Strandtown Primary School. This was a wonderful time for the students and staff of our school to learn about your travels.
The talk and show were pitched just right for our P 6 and 7 children. Your blend of fantastic slides and witty banter combined with interesting facts and stories was great.
Ever since your visit we have been buzzing with the story of your amazing journey.
It was a motivational talk that worked well at our primary school. The 45 minutes were inspirational and I haven't stopped telling all and sunder about it!
Thanks again Leon and good luck with your future adventures.
-Peter McWilliams
Strandtown Primary School
If you would like to make a booking, please contact me at leon@leonmccarron.com, via the Contact Page on this website, or on 07850269193
