Primary School Children Set to Benefit from National Cycle Training Programme
April 27, 2026
Thousands of primary aged children in Cumbria are set to benefit from a National Cycle Training programme thanks to funding from Active Travel England.
Bikeability is the UK’s national cycling programme designed to give children the skills and confidence to cycle safely on today’s roads. It aims to promote active travel, improve road safety, and encourage cycling as a healthy, sustainable mode of transport.
Following a new confirmed funding allocation for 2026-2029, thousands of children from primary schools across the county will be invited to take part in a Bikeability course held in school.
Managed by Active Cumbria’s Active Travel to School team Bikeability is offered to all 273 primary schools in Cumbria. Last year 6031 children received the training.
Active Travel to School Officer, Jodie Laird said; “We are delighted to announce the successful funding allocation for Cumbria to help more children learn to ride safely.
"It’s particularly encouraging that this new funding is confirmed for three years giving us the confidence to plan ahead and ensure every child is offered the opportunity to take part before they leave primary school.”
Following a robust tender process locally based cycle training provider Cyclewise have been appointed official Bikeability delivery partner for Cumbria responsible for leading the sessions in schools.
Director of Cyclewise, Sue Martin said; “Cyclewise are absolutely thrilled to be re-appointed official Bikeability delivery partner for Cumbria.
"We’ve been delivering the scheme in the county since 2007 and estimate we have trained around 80,000 children in that time.
"Knowing that we can continue for at least another three-years to help even more children discover the benefits of cycling and learn to ride safely is just fantastic.”
Bikeability is structured in three levels from beginners through to more advanced training for complex traffic situations. Schools will be contacted directly with an invitation to take part.