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Bike Bus Training Launches for Jersey

Empowering schools and communities to get more children cycling safely to school.

Jersey Sport has launched an exciting new Bike Bus Leader Training programme to help schools and communities safely set up and run their own bike buses – encouraging more children to cycle to school and build active travel habits for life.

To celebrate the launch, we caught up with Vicki Charlesworth, Head Teacher at Les Landes School and one of the founders of the school’s much-loved Cycling Crocodile – a thriving example of how bike buses can transform the school run.

How did the Cycling Crocodile begin?

“It was after the lockdown in 2020, when more families had the opportunity to get out on their bikes,” said Vicki. “When the school reopened in June, we wanted to capitalise on this. We did a lot of planning and prep, trial runs, etc., before officially launching in early 2021.” ….

What benefits does it bring to teachers, pupils, and parents?

“The benefits for children include building fitness, strength, and coordination. We know that exercise releases endorphins, so cycling before school can help them feel happier and less stressed.

It’s also a great opportunity for them to learn road safety skills in a safe and supportive environment, helping them become more confident and independent cyclists. Our pupils also know that by cycling to school, they’re helping the planet.”

“Teachers have noticed that children arrive energised and ready to learn – and, of course, those who join the bike bus always arrive on time!

For parents, it can make the morning routine easier. They can drop their KS2 child at the meeting point and head to work, or join the ride themselves for some exercise. It saves fuel, reduces parking stress, and contributes to safer roads and lower carbon emissions.”

When and where does it run?

“Through the winter, we run once a week. From February half-term, as the weather improves, we increase to a couple of rides per week, and by summer, we sometimes run every day.

It all depends on the availability of our amazing parent volunteers. The only time we don’t run is between late November and early February when it’s too dark and icy.

Our meeting point is at the Methodist Church on Rue De Trodez, and the 15-minute route takes us along the back lanes to school. We usually ride as one group at the pace of the slowest rider, though sometimes we split into two groups for different speeds.”

What advice would you give to other schools or parents thinking of setting up a bike bus?

“Risk assess your route and choose a safe starting point that can accommodate cars for drop-off.

Get your volunteers DBS checked and ensure you have first aiders.

Risk assess the activity as you would for any off-site trip.

Contact British Cycling to affiliate your club – our members pay £1 per year for insurance.

Use numbered hi-vis vests for children and a different colour for volunteers.

Consider a training session with Jersey Sport to upskill your volunteers in group cycling – including pace management, single file riding, and junction safety.

Offer bike checks if you can.”

Any standout moments from your bike bus experience?

“We’ve been nominated for – and won – awards, which is fantastic for our school community. The children take great pride in being part of the Cycling Crocodile.

We also have Reception children who can’t wait to take their stabilisers off so they can join in. It’s such a great motivator!”

Anything else you’d like to add?

“Anyone is welcome to join one of our rides – we’re always happy to help anyone get started.”

Get Involved!

Jersey Sport’s new Bike Bus Leader Training is designed to help schools and volunteers set up safe, successful bike buses with confidence – covering everything from route planning and safety to group management and communication.

If you’d like to find out more or register your interest, contact our Cycle Team at cycleteam@jerseysport.je.