Meet Victoria Brierley: Winner of the 2025 Instructor of the Year Award
Working across schools in Derbyshire, Victoria has supported hundreds of children of all abilities to develop their cycling skills and confidence.
June 30, 2026
The Instructor of the Year Award recognises individuals who consistently go above and beyond in delivering outstanding Bikeability training — ensuring every child has the opportunity to learn, progress and succeed on two wheels.
Victoria Brierley exemplifies this commitment.
Working across schools in Derbyshire, Victoria has supported hundreds of children of all abilities to develop their cycling skills and confidence. Her approach is defined by patience, positivity and an unwavering belief that every child can succeed, regardless of background or circumstance.
Victoria is known for never giving up on a learner. Whether working with anxious beginners, children with additional needs, or those facing social, emotional or financial barriers, she focuses on solutions – adapting her delivery to ensure every rider is included and supported.
Her impact extends well beyond the classroom. Over the years, Victoria personally saved to purchase a fleet of bikes to ensure no child would miss out on Bikeability training – a reflection of her deep commitment to accessibility and inclusion.
She also regularly gives her own time to provide additional support sessions for children who need extra encouragement, particularly those with SEND, helping them progress from first attempts to riding independently.
Her colleagues describe her as a role model whose passion for cycling is evident in everything she does – from delivering Learn to Ride sessions through to Level 3 training, and from supporting individual learners to mentoring other instructors.
“I was stunned to receive such recognition… we work as a team, not as individuals, so I feel this award is really for our team of Bikeability instructors.”
Victoria’s work has helped transform cycling confidence for children across her region – turning apprehension into independence, and uncertainty into enjoyment.
She also highlights the wider importance of Bikeability in schools and communities:
“Celebrating Bikeability matters because it creates opportunities to raise its profile across all communities… cycling improves physical and emotional wellbeing, supports road safety education, helps reduce emissions, and gives children independence.”
For Victoria, cycling is not just a skill, but a pathway to opportunity — particularly for children in areas of deprivation who may otherwise not have access to it.
“It is an honour to teach children to ride a bike, as we open up a whole world of independence for them.”
Victoria’s dedication, generosity and belief in every learner make her a standout example of what exceptional Bikeability instruction looks like.
Nominations for this year’s Celebration of Bikeability Awards are now closed, but it’s not over yet! There’s still time to cast your vote for this year’s People’s Champion Award over on our Facebook page. Voting closes Sunday 5th July.
This special award collates all the inspirational stories of our shortlisted nominees and shares them with the world in a social media public vote.
