All aboard the Noss Primary School bike train
The Noss Primary School’s bike train is a new initiative to enable pupils to cycle safely to school, accompanied by adult leaders. It fosters unity, enhances wellbeing and reduces congestion around the school.
Supported by a grant of £15,875.41 from the UCI Legacy Cycle Share Fund, the project provided more than 30 bikes and essential cycling equipment, making cycling accessible for pupils, staff and local residents alike.
Starting as a small trial, the bike train quickly grew in popularity, attracting more than 130 participants each week. Beginning at Staxigoe, the train picks up riders along a 2.5-mile route through residential streets, culminating at Noss Primary School.
The initiative has garnered significant attention, including a recent visit from Maree Todd, MSP for Caithness, Sutherland and Ross, who joined 136 participants in a memorable show of support.
Building momentum
The Noss bike train started as a weekly tradition on Tuesday mornings with just 22 pupils, but its numbers soared each week. Within a few weeks, it was attracting 74 cyclists, representing almost 25% of the school’s students.
By the end of the term, with MSP Maree Todd’s attendance, the bike train had grown to an impressive 136 participants, including community members who cheered from the sidelines.
The route, carefully chosen to avoid main roads, winds through safe residential streets, allowing pupils to enjoy a fun and secure journey to school.
Quotes & testimonials
The school train is just magical. I joined it today, 136 cyclists along the way – a phenomenal way to start your school day. Everyone was smiling, and people came out of their houses to cheer and support these children on their way to school. This is the best way for these kids to get to school, arriving full of energy and ready to learn. The headmaster tells me they’re even cycling more outside of the bike train, which is wonderful for the whole community
Maree Todd, MSP for Caithness, Sutherland and Ross
I’ve heard about school bike trains before but never imagined it would be this popular in Caithness – boy, was I wrong! When we launched, we hoped for a few participants. But each week, more parents and children joined. By the third week, we had over 60 riders, and it just kept growing. Seeing 136 cyclists – including MSP Maree Todd – was amazing. It’s a joy to see the community come together this way
George Ewing, Cycling UK’s Caithness development officer
This project has exceeded all our expectations. With each ride, we see more parents and community members joining, and the impact on the pupils has been incredible. Not only are they cycling to school, but they’re also cycling more in their free time. It’s fantastic to see them engaging in physical activity, improving their health, and enjoying the sense of community the Bike Train fosters
Fraser Thomson, head teacher, Noss Primary School
Community impact
The Noss Primary School bike train aligns with the goals of Scotland’s Regional Transport Partnerships (RTP), showing how local cycling initiatives can positively impact public health, community wellbeing and environmental sustainability.
For families, it offers a cost-effective, enjoyable travel option. The community has warmly embraced the bike train, with residents regularly cheering on young cyclists as they pass.
Headteacher Fraser Thomson highlighted the initiative’s broader impact, noting that more pupils are engaging in cycling outside of school hours.
Cycling UK’s George Ewing added: “School bike trains are a great way for kids to start their school day. They promote healthy habits, punctuality, reduce school congestion and, most importantly, are fun!”
Breaking down barriers to cycling
Recognising that owning a bike isn’t feasible for everyone, Noss Primary School provides free access to bikes and equipment, removing barriers to active travel. The UCI Legacy Cycle Share Fund enabled the school to purchase a fleet of bikes suitable for all ages and abilities, from balance bikes for young riders to bicycles for adults.
Cycling UK continues to support the initiative with maintenance lessons and family-friendly cycling sessions.
Fraser Thomson explained:
We have bikes that suit all abilities, from balance bikes to adult bicycles. Removing barriers to cycling will only benefit our community by supporting health, wellbeing and environmental goals
The Noss Primary School Bike Train demonstrates the power of local initiatives to create lasting positive change. Through a partnership between Noss Primary School and Cycling UK, with support from the UCI Legacy Cycle Share Fund, the bike train has transformed pupils’ journeys to school, fostering a sense of community, improving health and advancing environmental goals.
Its success serves as a model for other schools and communities, illustrating the enduring benefits of active travel and community-driven projects.
