Young people at Vale of Evesham School are experiencing new opportunities to learn, grow, and thrive thanks to a Worcestershire County Council Public Health Community Grant.
The school, which supports children and young people aged 4–19 with a wide range of learning difficulties, used the grant to purchase adapted balance bikes and expand their sessions, fostering independence, confidence, and wellbeing.
Headteacher Mr Brian Thomas described the impact of the initiative as “incredible.” Mr Thomas said: “Parents have been amazed by the success of the bikeability programme, some have previously said they could never imagine their child riding a bike, but now thanks to the sessions in school children are riding bikes safely out in their community which is just brilliant to see. I’d like to thank Worcestershire County Council for giving us this grant that has enabled us to purchase bigger balance bikes, safety equipment, and role play resources to accompany these such as a zebra crossing set. Cycling and role play improves our student’s physical health, their mental wellbeing and allows them to practice safe cycling in a calm environment.”
The grant has enabled the school to expand its resources, ensuring that children of different ages and abilities can take part. The addition of adapted balance bikes, helmets, and role play equipment means pupils can learn practical road safety skills in a supportive environment before taking them into the wider community.
Councillor Satinder Bell, cabinet member with responsibility for health and wellbeing at Worcestershire County Council, praised the programme at a recent visit. She said: “It was wonderful to go and see the children enjoying their new adapted balance bikes at the Vale of Evesham. They clearly love the bikes and value their time on them which is now built into their week. Keeping children active, mobile, and enjoying the outdoors is vital for good physical health and mental wellbeing.”
The initiative highlights how our public health community grants can make a real difference to local families. The Vale of Evesham School’s balance bike programme is now a regular part of the weekly timetable, ensuring that every child has the chance to benefit from the joy of cycling and the skills it brings.
For more information or to apply for a community grant for your organisation please visit: www.worcestershire.gov.uk/communitygrants
For more information about Bikeability and free learn to ride sessions in your area please contact: Bikeability@worcestershire.gov.uk
