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Pedal it How donated bikes are being transformed to give residents a new choice for their journeys across the borough
At Lawley Village Academy, two Year 6 pupils recently learned to ride a bike for the first time through Bikeability and it changed far more than their school week. Both pupils began with a one-day “learn to ride” session, arriving that morning unsure and nervous. By the end of the day, they were riding independently without stabilisers, something even they hadn’t believed was possible. During the week, the team spent time talking with the pupils and learned that neither child owned a bike at home. Despite their new skills and excitement, they had no way to keep practising after school. Through Re-wheeled, the school and the Active Travel & Road Safety Education Team contacted the parents, who were overjoyed, permissions were given and the school arranged something the pupils will never forget. At the weekly celebration assembly, the parents were quietly invited to the back of the hall. In front of their peers, the two pupils were surprised with ride ready bikes and
Toni Tanner, Teacher and Sustainability Lead, Lawley Village Academy said. “A highlight was witnessing the Year 6 cohort complete their Level 2 Bikeability course and the launch of the Re-wheeled programme, which has already afforded two children their own bikes and helmets. It supports our mission to be a more sustainable school and to champion active travel.” What is Re-wheeled Re-wheeled is giving old bikes a new purpose and opening up cycling for people who might not have had the chance to experience this type of travel. This scheme provides the opportunity for people to repurpose bikes and scooters they no longer need. The aim is to bring old wheels new life and allow someone else to change the way they get from a to b. Working with schools, colleges and local partners, the Active Travel & Road Safety Education Team match donations with residents who would benefit most so every day journeys feel that little bit easier. Why it matters A refurbished bike can change so much, it’s the confidence to get back on the road, independence, fresh air and healthier habits, or simply being to access services. Re-wheeled brings community generosity to life, one bike at a time By keeping the focus on access, safety and real-world cycling, we’re opening the door to more residents who could benefit.
helmets, praised not only for learning to ride, but for completing the full Bikeability course with confidence. Since then, the school has written to parents explaining how Re-wheeled works: families can donate unused bikes or scooters, which the Telford Travel team collect, repair and return as safe, ready-to-use bikes for other pupils who need them. The school can use these bikes for sessions on site, or gift them to families who would benefit most. The partnership is already transforming opportunities for children who might otherwise miss out.
To find out more about Re-wheeled and other cycling projects ran by Travel Telford visit.
TOTALLY TELFORD
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