REDDITCH children’s charity the Oakland Foundation has funded cycling lessons for pupils at a Droitwich primary school, delivered by PAL Fitness at Velo Park in Evesham.
Foundation trustees Peter Vaughan and Mark Williams attended the session alongside Oakland International co‑founder Sallie Attwell, meeting pupils and seeing first‑hand the positive impact the programme was having on children’s confidence, wellbeing and physical development.
Westlands First School deputy head and SENCO Sue Edwards said: “We are incredibly grateful to the Oakland Foundation for making this valuable opportunity possible for our pupils.
“The cycling sessions at Velo Park have had a noticeable impact, not only in developing physical skills but also in boosting confidence, independence, and overall wellbeing.
“It has been wonderful to see our children challenge themselves, support one another, and take pride in their progress.
“We would also like to thank PAL Fitness for delivering such engaging and supportive sessions and for helping create a positive and encouraging environment for all involved.”
PAL fitness funding and development manager Kieran Franks added: “Thanks to vital support from the Oakland Foundation, our Enhanced Learning Opportunity Programme has enabled children from Westlands First School to thrive in a practical setting, using our specialist adapted bikes.
“It has been great to see the impact, children growing in confidence session by session and learning key skills to support them to stay safe, become more independent and work in teams.”
The Oakland Foundation focuses on schemes which create lasting change for children and young people, especially those who face barriers to access.
Through inclusive, early‑intervention programmes, the charity aims to give children the confidence, resilience and skills they need to thrive both at school and beyond.
Mark Williams added: “This project is a great example of what can be achieved when schools, specialist providers and charities work together.
“The cycling sessions delivered by PAL Fitness have a truly positive impact, and we’re delighted to support Westlands School in giving pupils experiences that can make a lasting difference.”
