Active Devon and Torbay Council partner to deliver free Bikeability training for children

Torbay Council have announced a new partnership with Active Devon to manage and oversee the delivery of free Bikeability cycle training for children across Torbay.

This will ensure that young people gain the skills, confidence and independence they need to travel safely by bike, supporting healthier habits and lifelong wellbeing.

Recently awarded official training partner status by Bikeability, Active Devon will coordinate delivery across Torbay, supporting schools with cycle training.

A team of freelance Bikeability Instructors will deliver Levels 1, 2 and 3 training to primary, secondary and Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) schools throughout the Torbay area.

Aaron Harverson, Cycling Champion at Active Devon, supporting the programme, said: “We are delighted to be working with Torbay Council to help deliver this very important initiative. Bikeability training can give children and young people so much more than cycling skills. They gain confidence, improve their ability to respond to different scenarios, and discover a real sense of independence – as well as being supported to move more and be more active now and into the future.”

Councillor Hayley Tranter, Cabinet Member for Adult and Community Services, Public Health and Inequalities at Torbay Council, added: “We are proud to partner with Active Devon to offer free Bikeability training to schools across Torbay. Cycling is an essential life skill, and through this programme we are helping to create safer, healthier and more active journeys for our children. This partnership strengthens our commitment to supporting young people and giving them the tools they need to travel confidently around the Bay and enjoy the benefits of active movement.”

As part of their vision for everyone in Devon to be active for life, this initiative sits alongside other programmes delivered by Active Devon to support everyday movement. They run free adult cycle confidence sessions, tailored workplace cycle training and walkability, a child pedestrian road safety programme.

Aaron added: “After completing the Bikeability course, we hope many young people progress to cycle to school regularly where possible, boosting both their physical and mental wellbeing. This training can help children feel more engaged in the classroom and more connected to their community.”

Schools in Torbay that would like to take part and are not yet registered for Bikeability training can contact info@activedevon.org, where a member of the team will be happy to help.

Those interested in becoming a Bikeability Instructor in the area are also invited to email info@activedevon.org to find out more.