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Cycling to school
- Nearly half of children surveyed by Sustrans in 2010 wanted to cycle to school but only 4% were allowed to
- cycling reduces traffic congestion around school gates
- 2kg of carbon is saved for every short journey made by bike instead of by car
- cycling to school contributes to the hour of physical activity that children need every day.
Cycle training
Cycle training is an essential part of giving children the skills and the confidence they need to cycle safely and independently. In England Bikeability deliver cycle training to the National Standards.
In Scotland, schools should contact Cycling Scotland who are responsible for the delivery of cycle training.
In Wales, local authorities are being supported by the Welsh Assembly Government to deliver cycle training. Visit the Road Safety Wales website for information about availability in your local area.
In Northern Ireland, cycle training is currently provided through the Department of the Environment's Road Safety Programme. Contact your local Road Safety Education Officer for more details.
Cycle parking
Secure cycle parking is a crucial factor in encouraging children to cycle to school. As well as helping parents and pupils feel relaxed about bringing bikes to school, cycle parking is a striking way to publicise cycling and make cyclists feel valued. For a step-by-step guide to choosing the right cycle storage for your school, read our Cycle parking for schools (pdf) information sheet.
Equipment and clothing
Carrying heavy books and equipment is often viewed as a barrier to cycling. Panniers fitted to a rack on the bike are the best solution, although often a small backpack is sufficient. Schools can help by providing lockers and giving priority to cyclists or those who walk the furthest distance.
Cyclists should be as visible as possible to other road users and pedestrians. Confident road positioning (as taught through cycle training), high visibility clothing, lights and reflectors are great ways to do this. A white front light and red rear light (constant or flashing) and reflectors are legal requirements when cycling in the dark.
Hi-visibility bands, tabards and stickers for bikes, bags and clothing are available from bike shops or local road safety departments. Schools can often buy in bulk to save costs and encourage use.
Cycle helmets are designed to give protection from a fall. Though not compulsory, Sustrans recommends encouraging children to wear them. Helmets must be fitted correctly to be effective. Visit the Why Cycle website for advice about fitting helmets.
