Richmond tops London for school cycle safety training

Richmond upon Thames has once again demonstrated its commitment to children’s safety and sustainable travel, achieving the highest uptake of Bikeability training in London.

Delivered by the Council’s dedicated Safety Education team, Bikeability is the Department for Transport’s national cycle training programme. From April 2024 to March 2025, 2,773 Year 6 pupils across the borough took part in the Level 1 and 2 training, which equips them with essential cycling skills and road awareness.

The training is delivered in schools over five consecutive days, with pupils progressing from playground-based sessions to supervised rides on local roads. The programme is designed to:

• Reduce casualties among child cyclists 
• Teach pupils how to ride safely on quiet roads 
• Help pupils understand the rules of the road 
• Show pupils how to look after their bikes 
• Encourage more cycling 

Councillor Alexander Ehmann, Chair of the Transport and Air Quality Committee, said: 

"We are incredibly proud that Richmond leads the way in providing the highest level of cycle training for children anywhere in the capital. This milestone is a testament to the fantastic collaboration between our schools and our committed Safety Education team.

"By giving young people hands-on travel skills, we are making journeys safer and inspiring a new generation to choose greener, healthier ways to get around."

In addition to Bikeability, the Council offers a comprehensive programme of safety education for primary school pupils. This includes:

• Safe Walking Training for Year 3 pupils, with 2,404 children given training last academic year on how to navigate roads safely and use crossings 
• Scooter Training for Year 2 pupils, introducing road safety awareness through fun, practical sessions with 2,403 pupils taking part last year
• Junior Citizenship Scheme, a multi-agency initiative for Year 6 pupils, where 2,776 children engaged in interactive scenarios led by the Met Police, London Fire Brigade, Transport for London, and other partners

These programmes are delivered in all state primary schools and most independent primary schools in the borough.