12% say it is their primary means of travel.
A recent study on school commuting habits commissioned by insurance provider RedClick as part of its ongoing 'Shared Streets' campaign indicated that 25% of children have cycled to school during the last school year, with 12% saying it’s their primary way of doing so (10% using their own bikes and 2% using cargo bikes).
But 73% of respondents said their children never cycle to school, with 49% saying it is due to safety fears such as lack of protected cycle lanes (33%), fast or aggressive driving near schools (29%), and the lack of Garda presence / enforcement (11%).
The research indicated that cycling to school is on the rise, with figures at their highest in over 30 years when compared to Central Statistics Office (CSO) Census data. The trend may be due in part to improvements in cycling infrastructure, with 31% saying that they have noticed positive changes in this area.
While other active or sustainable travel methods are also used for the school commute - 33% by public transport, 32% walking, and 5% carpooling - the most commonly reported primary mode remains private vehicles, with 57% of respondents indicating this as their main method of transport.
The research, conducted by independent polling company Ireland Thinks, with a nationally representative sample of 1,900 participants, reveals a significant disconnect between preferred and actual modes of transport for schoolchildren, with safety concerns emerging as a primary barrier to increased cycling.
Parents Want Change, But Cycling Remains Out of Reach for Most
The research paints a clear picture, as only 12% saying that cycling is their primary means of getting to school, with a striking 73% of respondents indicating their children never cycle to school. This stands in stark contrast to the aspirations of many families, as 66% of those who drive to school state it is not their preferred method, but rather the only practical option.
Furthermore, while 57% currently drive to school, only 19% would prefer to do so. In Dublin, the desire for active commutes is particularly strong, with 72% of Dubliners expressing a preference to walk or cycle to school.
RedClick’s General Manager Lorenzo Ioan commented:
"Our 'Shared Streets' campaign is built on the premise that everyone deserves to feel safe and confident on our roads. This research clearly shows that while the desire for sustainable, healthier commutes exists, the infrastructure and perceived safety are simply not there yet."
Parents Want to Pedal, But Fear Keeps the School Gate Out of Reach
The study delves into the specific barriers preventing more children from cycling to school:
Safety fears are paramount, with 49% of respondents who don’t normally cycle citing them as the main reason.
Key safety concerns include lack of protected cycle lanes (33%), fast or aggressive driving near schools (29%), and lack of Garda presence / enforcement (11%).
While safety is the main barrier for children cycling to school, other deterrents cited by parents include distance (40%), weather unpredictability (28%), bags or equipment being too heavy (24%) and their child being too young (18%).
47% of Parents Say Protected Bike Lanes Key to Unlocking School Cycling Potential
Despite these challenges, the research also highlights potential solutions. When asked what would encourage them to cycle to school, a significant 47% of respondents called for safe, segregated bike lanes to and from school. Other suggestions included a 'safe routes to school' initiative (11%) and group cycles or bike buses (8%).
Interestingly, for those who do cycle, 38% allow their child to cycle independently, suggesting that with improved safety measures, more parents would feel comfortable allowing their children this freedom.
In Dublin, the picture is slightly more encouraging, with 28% of schoolchildren reported as using cycling as their primary method of travel to school (rising to 37% when including cargo/passenger bikes), showcasing the potential for growth with targeted interventions.
"RedClick believes that by investing in robust, protected cycling infrastructure and fostering a culture of mutual respect on our roads, we can unlock the immense benefits of active travel for our children - from improved health and well-being to reduced traffic congestion and environmental impact," added Lorenzo Ioan, RedClick Generali Manager.
We encourage policymakers, local authorities, and communities to work together to address these vital concerns and create a future where cycling to school is a safe and preferred option for every family."
