New cycling sessions help pupils at Dame Dorothy Primary gear up for active travel

Sunderland City Council, in partnership with Dame Dorothy Primary School and Sunderland Young People's Bike Project (SYPBP), has launched a new programme of cycling sessions to encourage active travel among young people.

Funded through the Government's Active Travel England Capability Fund, the initiative is part of a wider effort to promote walking and cycling across the city. The programme focuses on behaviour change by building confidence, skills, and awareness among pupils, helping them to choose cycling as a safe and healthy way to travel.

The four-part programme begins with a 'Dr Bike' session to ensure all Year 6 pupils' bicycles are safe and roadworthy. This is followed by 'Learn to Ride' sessions, which assess each pupil's cycling ability and offer additional support to those who need it. Pupils then take part in 'Road Safety' training to build awareness and confidence when cycling. The programme concludes with a celebratory 'Lead Ride' along the new Dame Dorothy Street cycle route, giving pupils the chance to apply their skills on a safe, purpose-built path.

The sessions are delivered by SYPBP, based at Thompson Park, and are designed to help pupils feel more confident cycling to school and for leisure. The programme also supports wider community goals around health, wellbeing, and sustainable transport.

Councillor Lindsey Leonard, Cabinet Member for Environment, Transport and Net Zero at Sunderland City Council said: "This is about more than just building a new cycle lane - it's about giving young people the skills, confidence and opportunities to stay active, healthy and independent.

"It's fantastic to see local organisations like Sunderland Young People's Bike Project getting involved to help pupils use the route safely and make cycling part of daily life.

"At the same time, the new infrastructure offers residents a safer way to cycle around the area, promoting healthier lifestyles and reducing congestion. I'd welcome everyone to get on their bike and make the most out of these cycle lanes."

Liam Semley, Project Manager from SYPBP Said: "We are delighted to be working with Dame Dorothy Primary School to encourage pupils to use the new cycling infrastructure to cycle to school and to use with their families for leisure.  We hope by leading this ride it will give children the confidence and knowledge to use the new cycle lane safely."

The new cycle lane and practical school sessions are part of a wider effort to promote cycling as a healthy, sustainable choice. This will help children and residents alike to enjoy the benefits of active travel, from improved fitness and mental wellbeing to cleaner air and a stronger sense of community.