News / Transport
Bristol’s first ‘bike bus’ gets children safely to school on two wheels
Children and their grown-ups gathered in three locations to take part in Bristol’s first ever ‘bike bus’.
The bike bus movement originated in Spain and has since spread across the world, with a group of young people chaperoned by adults who all cycle together following a scheduled route and timetable on the morning school-run.
Monday’s bike bus across Easton and Eastville saw the three groups merge into one near Greenbank Cemetery and then around 30 children cycle together down Thurlow Road to the back entrance of May Park Primary School.
The tiny cyclists rang their bells and whooped with glee – especially down the final descent to school – as adults ensured their cycling was uninterrupted by motor vehicles by briefly pausing at junctions.
It only took less than ten minutes for the three rides to converge, with some cyclists joining en route, warmly greeting their friends after the weekend.
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Year 6 teacher Joe Wood was inspired to organise the bike bus after a class project looked at how to reduce May Park’s carbon footprint.
“Many would love the opportunity to get here under their own steam but there were many obstacles, one of which was safety,” said Wood, who received help and support ahead of the first ride from Bristol Cycling Campaign.
“I have always been a keen cyclist and have concerns about my own daughter’s safety when riding in Bristol.
“So many children and adults want to cycle the short distance to school but it can feel unsafe on your own.
“When I saw a video online about bike buses, I just felt like this was what we needed.”
May Park Primary School Year 6 teacher Joe Wood (left) organised Bristol’s first bike bus – photo: Rob Browne
Wood said: “I think it is important for children to be able to move around the city they live in with some independence.
“It’s an important part of growing up and knowing your city. It’s also great to build getting active into your day – children arrive at school feeling more awake and ready to go.
“Not forgetting the most important part: it’s really fun!
“It’s fun for children to have a chat with their friends on the way to school and glide down a hill together!
“The first time we did it, there was such a buzz. Everyone arrived at school smiling from having such a great shared experience.”
Children of all ages took part in the bike bus – photo: Rob Browne
Wood added: “Children love riding bikes and parents love hanging out with their children.
“By inviting everyone to ride together, you’re turning the daily commute from a task into a joyful moment of play.
“It also unites the community. Everyone together, supporting each other up hills, dinging their bells and whizzing down the last bit together becomes a shared experience.
“Also it gives parents (and teachers) a chance to see each other- which is something that wouldn’t happen when dropping kids off in the car.”
Main photo: Rob Browne
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