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Primary school pupils in Oxfordshire were joined by Local Transport Minister Lilian Greenwood last week for a Bikeability training session, part of a nationwide initiative to give children the confidence and skills to cycle safely and independently.
Bikeability, backed by the Department for Transport, is delivered locally by Oxfordshire County Council’s Fire and Rescue Service Road Safety Team. The team has trained more than 7,000 children across the county, combining road safety expertise with a community-focused approach to encourage active travel from a young age.
Lilian Greenwood took part in the session to see how the government’s commitment to get more children cycling, walking and wheeling to school is being put into practice.
“Cycling to school is a great way for children to stay active, enjoy the outdoors and build healthy habits that last a lifetime.
“It not only supports physical and mental wellbeing, but also helps to reduce traffic, cut carbon emissions and ease pressure on the NHS – a key part of our Plan for Change.”
Lilian Greenwood, Local Transport Minister.
The visit follows the government’s announcement of nearly £300m in funding to build 300 miles of new cycleways and pavements across England. In total, £616m has been committed over the next four years to support active travel schemes nationwide.
Since its launch in 2007, Bikeability has helped almost six million children develop on-road cycling skills.
“Our ambition is that no child leaves primary school without level 2 on-road cycle training. This programme has a lasting impact on safety, confidence and behaviour – and it’s fantastic to see fire and rescue teams playing such a key role in delivering that locally.”
Emily Cherry, Chief Executive, Bikeability Trust.
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