The government is determined to increase the number of active travellers on Britain’s roads, including cyclists. 

Bikeability Level 2 training teaches children aged 9-11 years how to cycle in accordance with the 4 core functions of the National Standard for Cycle Training: making good and frequent observations, communicating intentions clearly to other road users, choosing and maintaining the most suitable riding positions, and prioritising road use, particularly at junctions. 

Recent evidence shows that Bikeability Level 2 training could not only save lives, but also increase wellbeing. However, barely half of all eligible children complete this training, for a variety of reasons.

The Bikeability Trust’s Immersive Cycle Training, funded by Active Travel England, is being delivered by Bikeability cycling instructors, in school classrooms nationwide, from Cornwall to East Riding of Yorkshire. All pupils complete a series of ‘Virtual Rides’ in which they view 360-degree footage filmed from a cyclist’s perspective on tablet devices, in synchrony and guided by the instructor.

The data so far, obtained from over 5,000 pupils in Years 5-9, show that after the training, young riders have a better understanding of the four core functions, view cycling as more fun and are interested in further cycle training.

This presentation will demonstrate how the Bikeability Trust’s Immersive Cycle Training is a powerful and cost-effective behaviour change intervention to increase young people's safety when cycling on roads.

Julie Turrell, Road Safety Manager, East Riding of Yorkshire