Cycling Boost at Ferney Lee Primary

What began as a simple request for funding quickly became something far more impactful for Ferney Lee Primary School and Nursery. An initial enquiry about cycle helmets opened the door to a wider conversation about the school’s enthusiasm for cycling and its commitment to helping every child learn to ride. That conversation revealed a set of well-loved balance bikes in daily use, a passionate team of staff, and a clear ambition to build pupils’ confidence from an early age.

Seeing this opportunity, Steve Pullan, Public Health Practitioner at Calderdale Council with responsibility for Active Travel and Bikeability in schools, worked with the school to turn a single request into a comprehensive package of support.

The result was not only new helmets, but four brand-new balance bikes, the servicing of six existing bikes, and a dedicated training session for teaching staff. Together, these elements are helping to lay the foundations for confident, capable young cyclists and a more active future, both in and out of the classroom.

“Here at Ferney Lee Nursery we are so grateful for our new balance bikes and helmets that we have been given from Bikeability.  We use the bikes every day as part of the outdoor provision in our yard and we encourage the children to put their helmets on and take them off independently.  The bikes are such an integral part of the children developing their gross motor skills, their balance and their co-ordination.” 

Anna Dumville- Nursery teacher at Ferney Lee 

The impact of this support is already being felt beyond the playground and into family life at home. As children grow in confidence and enthusiasm on their bikes, parents are noticing positive changes in both skills and self-belief. Their words capture how access to well-maintained bikes and confident, well-trained staff has translated into real benefits for their children, turning early cycling experiences into moments of pride, independence, and enjoyment.

“E couldn't ride a bike when she started nursery. Now she wizzes round like she's stollen it! She also absolutely loves her bike!  

Initially, we didn't realise that C had found his balance. We live on a steep, bumpy track, so for him to have access to regular practice on a flat surface was brilliant. In the summer, for his 4th birthda,y we bought him a pedal bike and he nailed it straightaway! Fantastic. Thank you so much for teaching him that skill so early on. Very grateful. 

Being able to ride his bike independently has given S more confidence in himself and is a great way for him to expend some energy! It’s also a nice activity he can do one-on-one with Dad and I, away from little brother.” 

You can find out more about the range of bikeability training and cycling courses available for children or adults in Calderdale on the Council website.