Cycle to School Week 2026 is an excellent opportunity for schools to encourage staff, pupils and their families to embrace healthier, more sustainable travel habits while promoting safer journeys to and from school.
Cycling to school offers numerous benefits. It improves physical fitness, supports mental wellbeing, reduces traffic congestion around schools, and helps lower carbon emissions. However, these benefits can only be fully realised when cyclists, parents, schools, and motorists work together to create a safe environment for young riders.
The UK government has set an ambition for 60% of children in England to be walking and cycling to school within the next decade through its Active Travel strategy; therefore, it is a great opportunity to promote the benefits of alternative forms of transport.
What Schools Can Do
- Promote Cycle to School Week through assemblies, newsletters and social media.
- Highlight available Bikeability training opportunities.
- Review cycle storage and security arrangements.
- Celebrate participation and share success stories with the school community.
Safety Considerations
Staff, parents and pupils can all benefit; however, it is important that they understand basic arrangements, such as planning safe routes to schools by choosing quieter roads and designated cycle paths, and considering weather and road conditions before setting off. It is important that children understand the rules of the road before cycling independently. Somerset Road Safety offers Bikeability training sessions to help develop cycling confidence and road skills.
Staff and parents may wish to complete adult proficiency training through a local provider, or the HSE is working with the Bikeability Trust to promote online awareness through the CycleIn confidence campaign.
It is important to complete primary checks before embarking on any journey by checking the brakes function correctly, tyres are properly inflated, chains are properly maintained, lights are working, and reflectors are clean and visible. Wear a helmet that fits correctly, high-visibility clothing, and appropriate footwear for good pedal grip.
Get Involved
Why not get involved in Cycle to School Week by promoting cycling across your school community and encouraging pupils, staff, and families to cycle to school where it is safe and practical?
