Cycling revolution as almost half a million children get their Bikeability badges

New figures from the Bikeability Trust show that cycle training is reaching more children than ever before, with 461,887 children receiving training between April 2022 and March 2023. The Bikeability Trust’s latest delivery stats show that 9844 primary schools received Bikeability training, representing 66% of primary schools in England (excluding London).

The record figures show that the Bikeability Trust is making progress to meet the Government’s manifesto commitment to offer Bikeability training to every school child. The top ten local authority areas for 2022–23, who delivered training to over 70% of their Year 6 pupils, are Plymouth, Solihull, Lancashire, Leeds, Cumbria, Cheshire East, Hull, Cambridgeshire, Warrington and Devon.

Bikeability cycle training equips children with vital life skills. Pupils not only learn to cycle, they gain independence, social skills and a sense of wellbeing. After Bikeability, children are better at responding to risk and report increased confidence. As a result, more children cycle to school which in turn improves mental health and wellbeing. This allows children to get more out of the classroom, improving their attention span and engagement. Healthier habits lead to increased attendance and improved academic results. Bikeability isn’t just a training course; it impacts children’s lives.

Bikeability Trust Chief Executive Emily Cherry said: “I’m so proud of the 461,887 children across England who can now enjoy the physical and mental health benefits of cycling, and will have the skills and confidence to be able to make more sustainable transport choices for the rest of their lives. Well done to you all, and huge thanks to our brilliant instructors and training providers across the country, who are so committed to teaching young people this essential life skill. And a special well done to our Bikeability superstars in the top ten local authority areas.

“But we know we have further to go. We are on a mission to ensure no child leaves school without the knowledge, confidence and opportunity to cycle. We know that government shares that ambition, and we were pleased to see the commitment to give every child access to Bikeability cycle training reiterated in Active Travel England’s recent Corporate Plan.

“We’re proud of what we’ve achieved in 2022, as outlined in our newly published impact report. The coming years will see Bikeability expand to areas previously unreached, helping us to deliver training to even more people. And we will continue to break down barriers to unlock cycling for everyone who wants to join in.”

Active Travel Commissioner Chris Boardman said: “Active travel puts the joy back into journeys, transforming the school run and giving children across the country transport independence, so it’s fantastic to see Bikeability reach this impressive milestone of delivering cycle training to nearly half a million kids.

“Helping young people develop the skills and confidence to get to schools, shops and leisure activities under their own steam is at the heart of our mission to provide healthier and greener travel choices for everyone.”