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Cycling lesson wanted: De Fietsschool launches new platform to tackle waiting times
Demand for cycling lessons in Flanders exceeds supply. That is according to new figures from De Fietsschool - Cycling School. Since January, more than 300 people have already signed up for cycling lessons. But more than half of them end up on the waiting list for the time being, because they cannot find a lesson in their neighbourhood. De Fietsschool wants to change this with a renewed digital platform that makes cycling lessons more visible, simple and accessible, both for participants and local organisers.
Queues grow, especially where no classes are scheduled
In the first five months of 2025, more than 300 people already signed up for cycling lessons through www.defietsschool.be. Only half were able to participate effectively. The other half ended up on a waiting list. Not due to lack of motivation, but due to the lack of offerings in their region.
"Where there is supply and good communication, people sign up. But in too many municipalities, the offer fails to materialise. That's a shame. We therefore help local governments to set up classes easily and efficiently."
A platform for visibility and cooperation
Over the past few months, De Fietsschool has been building a digital platform, www.defietsschool.be, that supports local cycling initiatives and helps reach participants. This platform provides:
- Insight: Organisers see in real time who signs up for cycling classes.
- Efficiency: From planning to registration and follow-up - all in one tool.
- Impact: Through reporting, knowledge sharing and guidance, each lesson series becomes stronger.
- Accessibility: The website is available in Dutch, French and English. So it can be used by a wide audience and is ready for cross-border cooperation.
Besides supporting the practical side of local cycling initiatives, De Fietsschool's digital platform also brings partners together in a shared knowledge environment: a network of 'Veloten'. These are volunteers, teachers and partners who share their expertise and experience on cycling education in order to strengthen each other.
Cycling as a lever against mobility poverty
Cycling is more than a mobility solution. For many adults, learning to cycle means a step towards work, education or social participation. Indeed, those without a car and unable to use public transport often encounter insurmountable distances. Cycling then offers a flexible and affordable alternative.
For many people, however, cycling is not an obvious choice. More than half of the registered participants in 2025 had never been on a bicycle before. For them, cycling lessons are not just a teaching opportunity, but a springboard to independence.
"Cycling literally increases people's radius of action. Those who learn to cycle get further and improve. That is what we are working on with our partners."
Would you also like to help make an impact?
Are you locally active and want to offer cycling classes for your residents, employees or students? Then find out how to start your own cycling school here, or contact us to get people on bikes together.