Bikeability scheme trains 50,000 children in Wiltshire

Wiltshire Council’s Bikeability programme has trained 50,000 children across the county to cycle safely and confidently for everyday journeys.

Bikeability supports young people to develop essential road safety skills and encourages safe, sustainable travel from an early age.

The milestone was celebrated at Aloeric Primary School in Melksham, where pupil Leo became the 50,000th child to complete the programme.

Emily Cherry, Cllr Martin Smith, Leo, the 50,000th Wiltshire pupil trained in Bikeability and Cllr Jon Hubbard, cabinet member for children's services and member for Melksham South. (Image: Wiltshire Council)

Cllr Martin Smith, Wiltshire Council's cabinet member for highways, said: "Reaching 50,000 children trained through Bikeability in Wiltshire is a fantastic achievement and a real testament to the dedication and expertise of our instructors and support teams.

"Bikeability plays an important role in helping young people develop life long skills, improve their confidence, and stay safe while cycling.

"It also supports Our Wiltshire Plan ambitions to improve road safety and encourage healthy, sustainable travel across Wiltshire.

"I’d also like to pay tribute to our team of 30 qualified Bikeability instructors, who do a fantastic job working closely with schools to provide high quality, practical cycle training for pupils."

The 50,000th trainee, Leo, was presented with a new bike during the celebration.

Pupils and staff from Aloeric Primary School in Melksham celebrate the 50,000 Wiltshire pupils trained in Bikeability, with Leo (centre) being given a bike for being the 50,000th pupil to be trained. (Image: Wiltshire Council)

The event was attended by Emily Cherry, chief executive of the Bikeability Trust, who praised the collective effort behind the scheme.

Ms Cherry said: "Reaching 50,000 children trained in Wiltshire is a fantastic milestone and a testament to the commitment of the council, instructors, and schools who make Bikeability possible.

"Giving children the skills and confidence to cycle safely and confidently on today’s roads is important not only for their independence, but for building healthier, more active communities.

"It’s inspiring to see the local impact of the programme, helping more young people discover the freedom and joy of cycling for everyday journeys."

Pupils from Aloeric Primary School shared positive feedback about their training experience.

Hugo said: "My favourite part was putting all the training into practice by leaving the school and going on the roads."

Naylah said: "It was really fun. The instructors were kind and my mum trusts me now that I know how to be safe."

Frankie said: “All of the instructors were really nice. I now ride my bike more safely and understand the rules of the road.”

Around 3,500 children benefit from Bikeability training in Wiltshire each year.