Two teachers from The City Academy, Hackney have taken a year out of the classroom to cycle the world.

Mari Williams and James Worthington - better known as Ms Williams and Mr Worthington to pupils at the school in Homerton Row - began their journey in Richmond, Virginia when term ended in July, and want to reach Portland, Oregon, 4200 miles away on the West coast by mid-October.

They will then get started in New Zealand, Australia, Vietnam, Cambodia, India, Sri Lanka and Turkey.

They hope to raise money for three charities - Building Schools for Africa, Bikes for Africa and Teacher Support Network.

They are writing a blog about their adventures and are also asking everyone they meet, “If you could teach the world one thing, what would it be?”.

They will compile the responses in a short film. They hope also to visit some schools along the way.

Mari, former vice principal at the school said: “This is a once in a life time opportunity.

“The cycling is a physical and mental challenge but the support we’ve had from home and along the way has kept us going.

“I think the experience will make me a better school leader. I almost can’t wait to get back.”

James, a maths teacher added: “I always used my bike in the classroom to get students interested when teaching rotation, speed or shape.

“I hope that in doing this trip we raise money for three educational charities and maybe even inspire some more young people to get on their bikes.’

To follow the blog see twoteacherstwobikesoneworld.blogspot.com and to donate go to www.justgiving.com/teams/twoteacherstwobikesoneworld