Year 6 pupils at Tameside Primary Academy swapped their class books for cycle helmets this term as they took part in Bikeability. The national programme, supported by the government, gives children the chance to develop key cycling skills, grow in confidence and learn how to stay active through riding.
Delivered by qualified cycling instructors, the sessions offered pupils a hands-on learning experience that catered for all ability levels. Some children learned to ride for the very first time, while more experienced cyclists built on their skills and practised how to ride safely on the roadside.
The Academy takes part in Bikeability every year, viewing it as an essential part of its curriculum. Much like swimming, the school believes cycling is a key life skill that every child should have the opportunity to learn.
There are many benefits to learning to cycle. It boosts fitness and strength, helps children form healthy habits that can last a lifetime, and builds confidence and independence. Pupils also gain valuable social skills as they work together, support on another, and share in the sense of achievement that comes with mastering something new.
Since its launch in 2007, Bikeability has trained more than five million children across England. Funded by Active Travel and administered by the Bikeability Trust, the programme is delivered through local councils, partners, and schools including Tameside Primary Academy.
The Bikeability Trust – the charity behind the programme – aims to make cycling accessible and enjoyable for every child, no matter their ability or experience. Beyond the classroom, it encourages a lifelong love of cycling and promotes the benefits of active, healthy travel.
During the 2024-2025 academic year, 1,199 schools across the West Midlands took part in Bikeability, with pupils spending more than 286,000 hours developing their cycling skills. Across England, more than 5.5 million children have taken part in the programme to date.
A national impact study conducted in 2019 by SWQ, an independent research consultancy, found that children who completed Bikeability training were significantly more likely to cycle regularly than those who did not – a testament to the programme’s lasting impact.
Cem Yalluri, Associate Principal at Tameside Primary Academy, commented: “Bikeability is something that we sign up to every year for our year 6 pupils because we believe that, just like swimming, learning to ride a bike is a key life skill. What we love about the sessions is that they’re completely inclusive; every child can take part. Whether they’re learning to balance for the first time or building confidence riding on the roadside, each pupil comes away with a real sense of pride and achievement.
“It’s always wonderful to see how much the children enjoy Bikeability and how their confidence grows. That sense of accomplishment often carries over into the classroom too. It’s an experience that stays with them, and one we’ll continue to be part of for many years to come.”
The success of this year’s Bikeability sessions has sparked real enthusiasm across the school. Tameside Primary Academy looks forward to continuing its partnership with the programme and helping every child discover the confidence, freedom and fun that cycling can bring.
