Bikeability is a three-level national training scheme available locally to help young people gain practical skills and understanding about cycling on today’s roads.

The new application system will widen the opportunity schools have to apply for the cycle training as it allows the schools to plan the training a full academic year in advance. This will mean that schools can plan around the curriculum ensuring the children have a better chance to participate.

As well as being able to plan ahead, schools can now submit applications instantaneously via the Buckinghamshire County Council website. Previously they had only been able to apply using a paper application.

Mark Shaw, Cabinet Member for Transport at Buckinghamshire County Council, said: ‘Encouraging children to be healthy and active in a safe way is very important. Not only does cycling improve on their health and wellbeing, it reduces congestion on the roads and ultimately is a reduction on pollution.

This new Bikeability system gives schools maximum flexibility and the opportunity to plan ahead and give the important Bikeability training to their pupils.‘

Further information about Bikeability can be found at www.buckscc.gov.uk/cycling-training.