Richmond upon Thames has topped the charts in London for children's cycle training, with more Year 6 pupils in the borough completing Bikeability than anywhere else in the capital.

From April 2024 to March 2025, a total of 2,773 pupils took part in the national scheme, which is delivered locally by Richmond Council's Safety Education team.

Bikeability, backed by the Department for Transport, equips young people with the skills and awareness to cycle safely.

Training is delivered in schools over five consecutive days, starting in the playground before progressing to supervised rides on local roads.

The programme aims to:

• Reduce casualties among child cyclists
• Teach safe riding on quiet roads
• Build knowledge of the Highway Code
• Encourage good bike maintenance
• Inspire more children to travel by bike

Councillor Alexander Ehmann, Chair of the Council's Transport and Air Quality Committee, praised the borough's achievement.

He said: "We are incredibly proud that Richmond leads the way in providing the highest level of cycle training for children anywhere in the capital. This milestone is a testament to the fantastic collaboration between our schools and our committed Safety Education team.

"By giving young people hands-on travel skills, we are making journeys safer and inspiring a new generation to choose greener, healthier ways to get around."

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Bikeability is part of a much broader programme offered by the Council to primary school pupils, including:

• Safe Walking Training – 2,404 Year 3 pupils learned how to navigate roads and use crossings safely.
• Scooter Training – 2,403 Year 2 pupils took part in fun, practical sessions introducing basic road safety.
• Junior Citizenship Scheme – 2,776 Year 6 pupils engaged in interactive scenarios with the Met Police, London Fire Brigade, TfL and other partners.

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