The Cycling School
Cycling is healthy, flexible and relatively cheap. Yet there are a lot of people who have never learned to ride a bike. This limits their freedom of movement. With accessible cycling lessons for adults and young people, De Fietsschool is changing this.
Cycling changes lives
Due to a lack of financial resources or a private car, many people do not get where they need to go. For them, work, school, shopping or leisure activities are difficult to reach. Mobility poverty thus puts a brake on freedom of movement. Cycling is then a relatively affordable solution.
Yet cycling is not a matter of course for everyone. A lot of people have never learned to cycle, just think of newcomers to Belgium, or have forgotten cycling over the years.
Using low-threshold cycling lessons, De Fietsschool gives these people the skills and confidence to hop on a bike independently. This way, they not only enjoy cycling fun, but also more freedom of movement. All kinds of destinations suddenly become accessible. Changing lives, that's what we do it for!
More than just cycling lessons
To cycle independently, people need more than just cycling lessons in their neighbourhood. That is why De Fietsschool also pays attention to traffic rules, road safety, bike maintenance, bike repair and buying an affordable (second-hand) bike.
This broad approach ensures that people keep cycling even after the cycling lessons, and that they can quickly repair a flat tyre or a dried-out chain themselves.
Besides cycling skills, the lessons are also a great opportunity for people to build their social network and possibly practise their Dutch. Empowerment in action.
A success story
A teacher, a volunteer, an abandoned courtyard in Leuven, about 20 bikes and some ropes and cones. That's how De Fietsschool started in 2011. The formula proved an effective one, both in Leuven and beyond. We build on that success every day.
The cycling school near you
For municipalities
De Fietsschool supports municipalities across Flanders in launching and organizing cycling lessons. The local context, needs and expectations shape the kind of support we offer — fully tailored to your situation.
For volunteers
Volunteer instructors play a key role in the success of De Fietsschool. Do you have a warm heart and a love for cycling? Would you like to help others learn to cycle, right in your neighbourhood? Let us know!
For pupils
Many municipalities offer cycling lessons for adults. Even if you’ve never ridden a bike before, you can join. We’ll help you get started — smoothly and safely. Don’t hesitate to ask us for more information.
Pieter Vanden Abeele
Contact Pieter, or take a look at The Cycling School website for more information.
Have a question about De Fietsschool - The Cycling School?
Fighting transport poverty
Everyone has the right to move freely and participate in society. We support people facing transport disadvantages by identifying vulnerable groups, and seek to integrate equity into sustainable mobility.