Music, bubbles and a fleet of bicycles are transforming the school run at Kineton Church of England Primary School.
Thanks to a project fully funded by the Ampa Foundation – an independent registered charity founded and funded by Ampa Group – the school’s Bicycle Bus is officially on the road, giving pupils and parents a safe, structured and fun way to cycle together every Friday morning.
Part of the school’s “Let’s Go Zero” initiative to shrink its carbon footprint, the Bicycle Bus encourages families to pedal instead of park.
Each week, families can join a lead cyclist along a planned route, complete with pick-up points, music pumping and bubbles floating through the air.
Headteacher Jenny Mitchell-Hilton said: “We’re over the moon to see our pupils cycling into school with such excitement. The Bicycle Bus fits perfectly with our environmental goals and gives families a fantastic way to get active together.”
Parent Jennie Wheildon, whose children are among the first riders, added: “The kids love it – it’s so much fun and it’s great to know we’re cycling safely with other families. The school run has gone from stressful to something everyone looks forward to each week!”
Founded during lockdown, the Bicycle Bus concept has already transformed school runs across Warwickshire, providing a safe, sociable and eco-friendly alternative to driving on 10 different routes to 12 schools in the county.
Kineton Primary is the latest school to embrace the trend, proving that the school run can be both enjoyable and environmentally friendly. As the days grow brighter, organisers hope even more families will join.
Bicycle Bus founder and driver Simon Storey said: “We’re thrilled to bring the Bicycle Bus to Kineton Primary School.
“It’s all about normalising cycling, and making it safe, fun and a part of the school day. Music, bubbles and high-fives are guaranteed, along with a little pedal-powered exercise for the whole family.”
The Ampa Foundation’s donation made the launch possible, funding essential kit like high-vis jackets, a GoPro, sound system and bubble machine – all designed to make the ride as safe, smooth and fun as possible.