Government funding for cycle training will enable Torbay Council to train an extra 500 primary school children during this financial year.

This is the first time the Department for Transport (DfT) has granted funding for children in school years 3 and 4 to take their Bikeability Level 1 qualification.

Councillor Robert Excell, Executive Lead for Safer Communities, Highways, Environment and Sport, said: “The additional funding is fantastic as it allows essential bike handling skills to be taught to 7 and 8 year olds.

“We are extremely lucky in Torbay, every primary school participates in the Bikeability Scheme, offering Level 2 to all year 5 and 6 pupils, so this is an excellent opportunity to start developing their skills at an earlier age.”

Torbay Council’s National Standards Cycling Officer, Michele Radant, said: “December and January are normally quieter months for us but we have been absolutely inundated with requests for the Level 1 training which has been brilliant. Last week we trained over 100 children, which is a record for us.

“We have been given a big ‘thumbs up’ from the children who have already taken the training. They love the sessions because they teach the skills through a series of fun activities and games. From April onwards, Torbay Council will also be able to offer free cycle training for Adults, which is something we are very excited about.”

Bikeability Level 1 is a playground based session that allows them to achieve their national certificate and badge. This means that they will be far more confident when we return to do their road training, Bikeability Level 2, in year 5.

When pupils reach secondary school, Bikeability Level 3 is offered to pupils to help them deal with busier traffic situations.

Torbay Council is committed to improving cycling levels in the Bay and Bikeability is an integral part of the strategy.

For more information on cycle training in Torbay please email highways@torbay.gov.uk