Home Children and Young PeopleSuccessful Cycle to School Week in Knowsley

Successful Cycle to School Week in Knowsley

by Lisa Bennett

School children across Knowsley have been getting on their bikes and travelling actively as part of Cycle to School Week 2026, which took place from Monday 5 to Friday 9 October.

The national campaign encourages families to swap the school run for a healthier, more sustainable journey, helping children discover the benefits of cycling while building confidence and having fun.

Throughout the week, pupils at Whiston Willis Primary School and Knowsley Village Primary School took part in free Bikeability cycle safety training delivered by BikeRight. The sessions helped young people develop the practical skills and road awareness needed to cycle safely and confidently.

The celebrations continued on Friday at Westvale Primary School in Kirkby, where children who cycled to school were rewarded with a special Bikers Breakfast, enjoying a free healthy breakfast before starting their school day.

Knowsley Council’s Active Travel and Road Safety Team, alongside colleagues from Public Health and Environmental Health, attended the event to offer advice and information to pupils, parents and carers on the benefits of active travel and how to stay safe when cycling.

Cllr Tony Brennan, Knowsley’s Cabinet Member Regeneration and Economic Development, said:

“It has been fantastic to see so many children and families taking part in Cycle to School Week. Cycling is a great way for young people to stay active, improve their wellbeing and gain confidence, while also helping to reduce congestion and improve air quality around our schools.

“The enthusiasm shown throughout the week demonstrates the growing interest in active travel across Knowsley, and we hope many families will continue cycling to school long after the campaign has ended.”

Benefits of cycling to school

  • Saving money on fuel costs
  • Keeping fit and feeling energised to start the day
  • Removing the stress of rush hour traffic and finding a parking space
  • Helping the environment by reducing CO2 emissions

Bikeability training

Throughout Cycle to School Week BikeRight are delivering Bikeability training in schools across Knowsley.

The free cycle safety training sessions help teach young people the practical skills and understanding they need to travel by bike including reading road signs, recognising hazards and sharing space with pedestrians and road users.

Schools in Knowsley can find out more about the cycle safety training online by emailing merseysideoffice@bikeright.co.uk or by calling 0151 207 3140.

Bikeability training is funded by the Liverpool City Region Combined Authority.

Active Travel

Did you know that Knowsley has a whole network of safe walking and cycling routes? Find out more and see what’s in your area here.