As part of Scotland’s Railway Schools Partnership, young pupils at a school in Ayrshire have received bikes donated by Network Railway and Story Contracting.

The 22 bikes, which were refurbished before being sent to Blacklands Primary School in Kilwinning, were delivered as part of a year’s worth of investment, which can also include workshops, lessons, railway safety, active travel and careers in the rail industry.

Each bike also came with lights, a safety helmet and a Hi-Viz jacket supplied by Story Contracting.

The school’s late former head teacher, Susan Lauder, was a promoter of the Railway Schools Partnership and made sure that the project would provide for her school.

Each of the bikes donated promotes active travel and is a great activity for children to help with inclusion and build confidence through physical exercise. The bikes also help with children who do not have a bike of their own at home, which allows students to still cycle with their friends.

Blacklands Primary is one of four schools across Scotland involved with Scotland’s Railway Schools Partnership.

“We are delighted to have received all of the bikes from Network Rail and excited to be part of the wider project. 

Mrs Lauder was a big advocate of getting children outside and moving, and the bikes will allow us to teach and develop cycling skills with all of our children. 

Some of them have already asked if they can organise a cycling club for the school in the New Year! Network Rail are helping to make this incredibly difficult time a little bit easier.” 

Deputy head, Lynne Gibson

“We value the importance in giving back to the areas we work in, especially schools, which are at the heart of our communities.  

Cycling is a great way for children to stay active, build independence, and enjoy time outdoors. 

For some pupils, this might be their first bike and that’s a big moment, which we hope opens up new opportunities for them.” 

Mark Wilson, senior programme manager for Capital Delivery at Network Rail