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 students at the school) are attempting to cycle 4200 miles across the US. Their journey began in Richmond, Virginia. They hope to reach Portland, Oregon on the West coast by mid–October. They have so far cycled 1700 of those miles and are somewhere in the north of Kansas.

Their journey is hoped to raise funds for three charities - Building Schools for Africa, Bikes for Africa and Teacher Support Network.

They are writing a blog about their adventures and 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.

After the United States they will cycle in New Zealand, Australia, Vietnam, Cambodia, India, Sri Lanka and Turkey.

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 is 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.'

You can follow along:

• Their blog at twoteacherstwobikesoneworld.blogspot.com
• Or donate at Justgiving where you can choose from three charities they are fundraising for.