As Local Transport Minister (and a mum myself), I know the school run can be a daily juggling act. That’s why I was so pleased to take part in Bikeability cycling training at an Oxfordshire school this week, to see first-hand how cycling to school can make mornings healthier, happier, and a little less stressful for everyone.
It was brilliant to see the children’s confidence grow as they learned to signal, navigate junctions, and ride safely on real roads. The smiles on their faces said it all. Cycling isn’t just a mode of transport, it’s a skill for life.
What is Bikeability?
Bikeability is the Department for Transport’s national cycle training scheme, giving children across England the skills and confidence to cycle safely and independently.
It’s delivered by trained instructors in schools and communities across England, covering everything from basic bike handling to advanced road awareness. Over 4 million children have already taken part, and we’re working to reach even more.
Why does it matter?
Right now, around 43% of primary and 29% of secondary school children are driven to school across England. That’s a lot of cars, a lot of congestion, and a lot of missed opportunities for fresh air and exercise.
Getting more children cycling, walking, or wheeling to school isn’t just good for the planet (and your pocket!), it helps kids arrive energised and ready to learn, supports their physical and mental health, and means cleaner air around our young ones.
It also helps build independence and road awareness from an early age, giving children the confidence to navigate their neighbourhoods safely and responsibly. And for parents, it can mean fewer stressful car journeys and more time with your child on the way to school.
What’s the Government doing?
We’re backing active travel with real investment – £300 million for 300 miles of new cycleways and pavements this year alone, and £616 million over the next four years. Our goal is to make it easier and safer for families to choose cycling or walking, whether you’re in a city, town or a village.
We’re also making record investment in fixing potholes, because we know that safe, well-maintained roads are essential for everyone, whether you’re cycling, walking, or driving. This year, we’ve committed an extra £500 million to help councils repair roads across England, building on our long-term funding to tackle potholes and improve journeys for all road users.
We’re also supporting local councils to roll out School Streets schemes, which restrict traffic outside schools during drop-off and pick-up times. These initiatives create safer, calmer environments for children to walk and cycle, and they’re proving popular with parents and teachers alike.
My message to parents:
We are continuing to support active travel as a great investment in our communities, and your child’s health and wellbeing. If you’re already a cycling family, thank you for leading the way: every pedal helps make our communities healthier and greener.
And if you’re thinking about giving it a go, even just once a week, there’s never been a better time. Check if your school offers Bikeability, explore your local cycle routes, and see how a small change could make a big difference.
Happy cycling!