 Saddling up for another year of cycle training
Schools in Wokingham Borough are gearing up for a new series of Bikeability training following a successful year including summer holiday courses.
Our partners at Avanti Cycling taught 2,440 children in 47 schools and at holiday courses during the 2025/26 academic year.
They provide Bikeability cycle training at three levels:
- Level 1: Basic bike handling skills in a traffic‑free environment
- Level 2: On‑road cycling on quiet local streets
- Level 3: Advanced cycling skills on busier roads and complex junctions
We're one of the best-performing councils when it comes to uptake, with almost 80 per cent of Year 6 children taking part.
This year we doubled the number of Level 3 sessions and introduced more informal fun sessions which prepare Year 4 children for Bikeability.
We also offered Dr Bike sessions at several schools, allowing children to have their bikes checked and adjusted. This year, Dr Bike will be visiting 20 schools.
Bikeability supports an increase in cycling to secondary schools and, ultimately, helps the next generation embrace sustainable alternatives to driving.
Entries for our anti-idling banner competition need to be submitted by Friday, 11 September. Winning designs will be transformed into banners and displayed at school gates, helping to encourage cleaner air and healthier communities.
 Tiny feet, big safety lessons for pre-schoolers
Throughout August, we led road safety assemblies for nursery-aged children within Wokingham Borough.
Children were delighted to meet Humfrey the teddy, who arrived wearing his high-visibility vest and taught them about staying safe near roads.
Together, they explored different ways of travelling and discussed how we get from one place to another in the most sustainable way.
They also enjoyed short educational stories and games to help them stay safe by following the Green Cross code.
Every child got a reflective sticker to take home, while their parents received a brochure explaining sustainable ways to get to and from school.
Nurseries also borrowed role-play equipment to help children continue practising and build safe habits to last a lifetime.
If your nursery, school, or early years would like to book a visit, please get in touch and we'll be delighted to discuss how we can help.
Local charity Freely Fruity want to hear from businesses that are interested in either sponsoring a schools walking challenge or hosting staff walking challenges using an app. Find out more and get in touch.
 Pedal power draws crowds at Twyford village fete
On Saturday 22 August, we chatted with hundreds and adults and children who visited our stall at Twyford village fete.
Visitors enjoyed activities like our prize wheel, with rewards including reusable water bottles and high-visibility gear to help people travel safely all year round.
Our smoothie bike was popular as ever, with visitors whipping up a tasty and healthy fruit treat after just two minutes of pedalling.
Throughout the day, we shared advice and information on walking, cycling, scooting, and other sustainable travel options, helping residents discover practical ways to make more environmentally friendly journeys.
We also gave out a new leaflet showing how to travel to Twyford station in a more active and sustainable way, which proved popular.
September is Mode Shift Month, a national celebration of walking, wheeling, cycling, using public transport, and journey sharing. Register now and pledge to make your journeys more active this autumn.
 Swapping screen time for saddle time
British Cycling have launched a new Sofa to Saddle application to help more people get cycling by making it easier to build riding into everyday life, whether you're returning to two wheels or starting from scratch.
The launch couldn't be better timed. New NHS-backed physical activity guidance is encouraging everyone to move more and sit less, highlighting that even small amounts of activity can have a big impact on health and wellbeing.
 Catch the bus this month - and beyond!
We're highlighting Catch the Bus Month 2026, the annual campaign by Bus Users UK celebrating the benefits of bus travel and inspiring more people to get on board.
This year’s theme of "myth busting" will challenge outdated perceptions to show that modern bus travel is clean, green, affordable and accessible.
Every day, around 10 million bus journeys get people to work, education, healthcare appointments, shops and social activities.
Buses reduce congestion, cut emissions, support local economies and connect communities, yet many myths about bus travel still persist.
Throughout Catch the Bus Month, we'll be busting those myths by highlighting the value of local bus services and encouraging people to get on board.
Plan your local journey with Reading Buses, Thames Valley Buses and Carousel Buses, and find out more about our plans to improve services.
 Upcoming activities and events
- Free Balance Bike Club at FBC in Finchampstead (Wednesdays 2.15pm) from 10 September
- Free Balance Bike Club at Woodford Park Leisure Centre in Woodley (Thursdays 2.15pm) from 11 September
- Learn to Ride sessions (£12) at FBC in Finchampstead (Wednesdays 4pm) from 10 September
- Learn to Ride sessions (£12) at Woodford Park Leisure Centre in Woodley (Thursdays 4pm) from 11 September
- Woky Wheels 4 All (FREE) at FBC in Finchampstead (Thursdays 10am &11am) from 11 September
- My Journey & Dr Bike at Barkham & Arborfield Community Fun Day at Farley Hill Primary School, Arborfield Green on Saturday, 19 September 11am to 4pm
- My Journey & Dr Bike at Stables Cafe, Arborfield Green on Saturday, 3 October 11am to 3pm
For more information on our regular cycle training and activities or to book, visit our website.or follow us on Facebook and Instagram.
|
