Bilston primary school returns to Derby Velodrome for memorable experience

Pupils from Bilston Church of England Primary School returned to Derby Arena for a second consecutive year after a successful visit in 2025 inspired staff to make the trip an annual event.

Twenty-two pupils travelled the 45 miles to Derby on Monday to experience the indoor velodrome, where they took part in a two-hour coached cycling session on the banked track.

Headteacher Mr Gentle, who organised the school's first visit in 2025, was unable to attend this year. Deputy Head Mrs Thornton led the trip, driving one of two minibuses, accompanied by Head of PE Mr Lewis and teaching assistant Mr Westwood.

On arrival, each child was fitted with a fixed-wheel track bike, specialist cycling shoes and a helmet before receiving expert tuition from qualified coaches.

The session proved as popular as last year's visit, with pupils gaining confidence and developing new cycling skills while experiencing one of the country's few indoor velodromes.

The visit forms part of the school's commitment to providing children with opportunities to experience a wide variety of sports and activities, with cycling playing an increasingly important role in school life.

Reflecting on the day, Mr Franks said: "Pure thrill, a mixture of adrenaline and excitement that gives children and adults the opportunity to build more confidence."

Mrs Thornton praised the pupils for their enthusiasm throughout the day and said she hopes the school will return to Derby Arena again next year.

The school has continued to promote cycling beyond the classroom. Earlier this year, Mr Gentle joined pupils on the Kidical Mass family cycle ride from East Park to Molineux and back, reinforcing the school's commitment to encouraging cycling while promoting safe riding.

Following the school's first visit to Derby Arena, Mr Gentle highlighted the need for an indoor velodrome closer to home.

"It would be fantastic to see one of these in the West Midlands," he said. "There are lots of enthusiastic cyclists across the Black Country and experiences like this inspire young people. It's healthy, it's great exercise and, most importantly, it's tremendous fun."

One pupil was equally enthusiastic after riding the track for the first time, saying: "I want it to be near my house so I could go every day. It's beautiful in here."

Several supporters from the Black Country travelled to Derby to watch the children, including former councillor Carol Hyatt, Wolverhampton's Bicycle Mayor, Kidical Mass organiser Sam Henry and youth cycling leader Dan Grizzle.

They continue to campaign for an indoor velodrome to be built in the Black Country, believing it would inspire even more young people to take up cycling.

With growing support for the idea, campaigners believe the region could one day have a world-class indoor cycling facility of its own.