Bikeability
The Cycling Proficiency Test for the 21st Century
Designed to give the next generation the skills and confidence to ride their bikes on today's roads. There are three Bikeability levels and children will be encouraged and inspired to achieve all three levels, recognising that there is always more to learn and to enjoy on a bike. The National Standard for Cycle Training sets out the skills needed for cyclists to be competent and confident using their bikes for all sorts of journeys. Building on the experience of cycling proficiency the National Cycle Training Standard has been developed by over 20 expert organisations in response to public demand for a modern, nationwide scheme that caters for today's road conditions. The Standard is a realistic progressive scheme that moves through three levels to give parents the reassurance that their children have the necessary skills and confidence to cycle at each stage of their development and particularly to cycle to school.
Level One
The children from Year 4 onwards will learn how to check the safety of their equipment using the ‘M’ check procedure to ensure bikes are suitable for training. Children will be assessed on their basic handling skills in the school grounds, using a combination of demonstration, drills and games to impart and embed the required knowledge and skills. When ready, trainee’s will move onto Level 2.
Level Two
Cycling on local roads, accompanied by the Instructors, trainees will practice road positioning, observation and safe manoeuvring whilst learning how to interact with other road users in a safe and responsible manner. The course is fun and enjoyable and aimed at Year 5 onwards.
Level Three
This course is 2 hours long and takes place on public roads accompanied by the Instructors. Trainees will recap Level 2 on-road traffic theory whilst introducing advanced cycling practice – looking at the cycle route to school, where possible introduce them to traffic lights, multi-lane roads and complex junctions. Consider how to pass queuing traffic, perceive and deal with hazards and understand driver blind spots.
Trainees MUST be able to cycle unaided in a straight line, round corners and be able to ride with one hand in order to signal.
Leading up to the course, you could help your child practice these skills, along with looking over the right shoulder (without wobbling).
Award: This course is Bikeability accredited. Trainees will receive a printed certificate and
badge. However training is incremental and sequential. If trainees do not attend one session, they may not achieve the level required to participate in following sessions which will hinder their opportunity to receive the award.
Equipment: Trainees must have their own bikes and helmets. Bikes must be in a roadworthy condition e.g. working brakes, pumped up tyres. A good fitting CE marked helmet must be worn. Instructors will enforce the wearing of helmets.
Behaviour: We require good behaviour from all trainees. If instructors believe a trainee may be a danger to themselves or the group, the instructor may exclude the trainee from the course. The Instructors’ decision is final.
Cost: Courses are free, delivered by Erewash School Sport Partnership
What to wear: Trainees need to be appropriately dressed for the weather that day, consider waterproof/warm jacket and gloves. Please see the form titled Bike, Helmet and Clothing Checklist.
Consent Forms: All trainees must have parental consent to participate in on road training. This is not negotiable. No consent form, no training.
CLICK HERE to download the Bike Helmet and Clothing Checklist...
