Bikeability Continues For Children In The North

Despite the challenges of COVID-19, Bikeability, the Department for Transport’s flagship national cycle training programme for schoolchildren, has been delivered to over 3.6 million children in England since 2007. It is proven to improve both cycle skills and confidence on the road.

Due to the national lockdowns implemented across the country in 2020 and early 2021, schools were closed and Bikeability cycle training could not take place. However, as the country enjoyed a cycling boom due to quieter roads and a renewed focus on time outdoors, the Trust launched their “Cycle More and Have Fun” film to share top tips on how families can cycle together confidently.

Once schools reopened from September 2020, Bikeability cycle training was recognised by the government as an essential part of the recovery curriculum and training could resume in most areas. Instructors followed rigorous Covid-safe guidelines to ensure that children could confidently improve their cycling. Cycling reduces the risk of transmission of COVID-19 thanks to fresh air and increased ventilation. It also enables pupils to be physically active, whilst encouraging physical distancing.

Emily Cherry, Executive Director at the Bikeability Trust, said:
“Coronavirus has been challenging for everyone, not least our young people. We are proud of every child who has completed their Bikeability cycle training under such difficult circumstances and are now enjoying the freedom this skill brings".

"We are extremely thankful to our dedicated and passionate grant recipients, training providers and instructors who have worked hard to deliver cycle training to as many children as possible to ensure they can live confident, active lives.

"As we pedal towards the final days of Bike to School Week, we are delighted to see children across the country back on their bikes and showcasing their new cycle skills. Cycling not only provides a means of transport; it boosts wellbeing, builds confidence and provides social experiences, which many children have missed out on due to COVID-19.

"With the Department for Transport investing a record £18 million in the Trust, including money to support the training of more instructors and projects that help more children access cycle training, we are now looking forward to teaching even more children how to cycle.”