Learning to cycle in practice: inspiring projects by De Fietsschool
From cycling classes in shelters to big city projects: De Fietsschool supports diverse target groups to learn to cycle more independently and safely. On this page, we collect some inspiring cases. Each project shows how, together with local partners and volunteers, we are building a more accessible, sustainable and inclusive cycling culture.
BE CYCLE - Cycling as a lever for autonomy in shelters
What does it mean to be mobile when you have just arrived in Belgium? For shelter residents, cycling can be a key to self-reliance. With BE CYCLE, De Fietsschool and its partners are committed to sustainable, integrated cycling initiatives that literally and figuratively get residents moving. From cycling lessons to bicycle lending and repair: BE CYCLE proves that bicycle mobility makes a world of difference even within reception centres.
Ostend Fietsschool - Learning to cycle, step by step
In Ostend, cycling mobility received a solid boost. Thanks to the partnership between the city, De Fietsschool and an enthusiastic group of volunteers, more than 180 adults and children learned to cycle independently between 2023 and 2024. What started as a response to long waiting lists grew into a success story centred on cycling skills, inclusion and cooperation.
Full steam ahead - Cycling to work and training
How do you bridge the distance to work or training without your own transport? De Fietsschool's "Vol aan de Bak" project provides an answer by supporting jobseekers and trainees with cycling lessons and mobility solutions. Together with local partners and volunteers, we help participants literally and figuratively on their way to new opportunities.
Fietsschool XS - Getting rid of the cycling deficit in young children
Not every child learns to ride a bike at a young age. With Fietsschool XS, De Fietsschool tackles that disadvantage. In collaboration with schools, district operations and parents, the project helps children between 6 and 12 years old to get on their bikes independently in four lessons. The result? 3 out of 4 children achieve the expected cycling proficiency - and pedal confidently into the future.
De Fietsschool x Decathlon - Reusing bikes, helping people move forward
In 2023, De Fietsschool and Decathlon joined forces for a special project. While Decathlon gave new life to old bikes through ReCYCLE, De Fietsschool organised cycling lessons for adults in the car parks of ten shops. A collaboration that put both sustainable mobility and social impact on the map.
BE-Cycle Overpelt: cycling as a bridge to participation
In cooperation with Fedasil and the city of Overpelt, De Fietsschool organised cycling lessons for shelter residents. This BE-Cycle project focused on self-reliance, social integration and mobility. Participants not only learned how to cycle, but also found their way to local services and community activities via bicycle. A powerful example of how cycling education gets people moving, both literally and figuratively.
BE-Cycle Arendonk: pedalling together towards confidence
In Arendonk, De Fietsschool offered cycling lessons for residents of the Fedasil reception centre, with a special focus on women. What started as a practical skill grew into a bond of trust between participants, instructors and the local community. The bicycle became a lever for connection, independence and a new perspective for the future.
Who we work with
Behind every project is a strong partner. De Fietsschool works with cities, schools, businesses and social organisations to put cycling mobility into practice. Wondering who has hit the road with us?