Bikeability In Schools
Cycle Training

Bikeability Cycle Training In Schools

Discover Bikeability: the Ultimate Cycling Training Program!

Bikeability stands out as today’s premier cycle training program. It offers practical skills and essential knowledge for navigating today’s roads safely and effectively.

With Bikeability Cycle Training, you gain the confidence to ride your bike more frequently and enjoy the numerous benefits of cycling. Whether you are new to cycling or looking to enhance your safety and frequency, there’s a Bikeability level tailored to your needs.

Our expert instructors are dedicated to helping you develop safer, more effective cycling habits. Thanks to funding from the Department of Transport, Bikeability has been enhancing cycling skills for over 14 years. In partnership with Cumbria County Council, Cyclewise has successfully trained over 60,000 children.

Start your journey with Bikeability today and experience the difference firsthand!

Bikeability On The Playground

What is Bikeability?

Bikeability Cycle Training equips individuals with essential cycling skills and knowledge for navigating modern roads. Recognised by the government, Bikeability is the sole cycle training program based on national standards. All Bikeability providers adhere to a strict quality assurance system, guaranteeing that each training session meets the highest standards.

Upon completing the Bikeability training, cyclists earn a badge and certificate that reflect their achievement level.

Bikeability Levels 1 and 2 are typically offered to children in primary school Years 5 and 6. Meanwhile, Level 3 is available to students in secondary school.

Please do not hesitate to contact us or your school to find out when that training will be taking place.

Bikeability Levels

Bikeability Level 1

Level 1

The Bikeability Level 1 course aims to develop mastery in cycle handling in an off-road environment. It prepare riders for cycling on the road. Riders must be able to cycle (i.e. pedal and glide) to participate in Bikeability Level 1.
Bikeability Level 2

Level 2

Bikeability Level 2 will develop riders’ skills and confidence for cycling on single-lane roads and simple junctions with mostly moderate motor traffic flows. Preparing riders to deal with short journeys such as cycling to school or the local shops.
Bikeability Level 3

Level 3

Bikeability Level 3 equips riders with the skill and confidence to ride in more challenging roads and traffic situations. Busier streets, queuing traffic, complex junctions, and roundabouts are covered. It also includes planning routes for safe cycling.

Our Bikability Instructors

Cyclewise Bikeability is committed to providing top-notch bike training through professional National Standard Instructors. As an accredited Bikeability provider, we not only issue badges and certificates but also ensure the highest quality through a rigorous quality assurance system.

Our Bikeability team comprises fully qualified National Standard Instructors. Each instructor undergoes comprehensive background checks, including enhanced DBS checks, and possesses first aid qualifications. Additionally, they hold various coaching, leadership, and maintenance certifications.

To maintain their expertise, our instructors regularly participate in Continuing Professional Development (CPD) courses. This dedication to ongoing learning solidifies our reputation as one of the most qualified bike training providers in the U.K.

Based in Cumbria, our instructors are intimately familiar with the local roads and terrain. They are passionate cyclists themselves and take great pride in nurturing the next generation of cyclists. Last year alone, we trained an impressive 60,000 children across Cumbria, showcasing our commitment and success in developing young cyclists.

Get Bikeability Ready

Bike

Make sure you check that your bike is in good working order, with the tyres inflated and the moving parts working well. If you need to take it to a bike shop before-hand, don’t leave it to the last minute!
Make sure your saddle, handlebars and wheels are fixed on tight
Ensure both your front and rear brakes work properly
Run through all of your gears
Clean and oil your chain regularly
Check your tyres are pumped up

Helmet

Your helmet should sit on top of your head comfortably. (not too tight or too loose) The peak should sit about two fingers width from your eyebrows.
The side adjusters should sit just below your ears forming a nice V on the side of your head. The chin strap should allow for two fingers to fit between it and your chin.
Cyclewise can provide helmets on the day for your child.

Clothes

You should wear whatever you would normally wear to school. You must also be prepared for different types of weather.
On cold or wet days bring your coat and gloves, and a change of clothes.
On warm days make sure you have put on suncream and keep drinking water throughout the day.
As you will be using a bit more energy than normal make sure you’ve had a good breakfast before school.

Important Information for Parents / Guardians (Terms & Conditions)

Bikeability Level 1 & 2 Cycle Training Course Information

Bikeability, a nationally recognised cycle training program funded by the Department for Transport (DfT), provides children with essential skills and confidence for safe biking. Sponsored by Cumberland Council and Westmorland and Furness Council, Cyclewise offers this training free of charge. Our expert instructors, all DBS-checked, lead each course. For further details, visit the official Bikeability website. As of 2024, Cyclewise has successfully trained over 60,000 young cyclists throughout Cumbria.

Course Duration

The Bikeability course consists of four sessions, each lasting two hours. Note that the duration may vary depending on the size of the group.

Level 1: Playground-Based Training

Session 1: In this initial session, participants will learn to check their bike, control it, and master basic riding skills. To advance to Level 2, children must demonstrate proficiency in bike control.

Level 2: Road Training

Sessions 2-4: These sessions focus on developing road skills, including performing basic maneuvers at local junctions, making left and right turns, and overtaking parked vehicles.

Pre-Course Preparation

The Bikeability course is not designed to teach children how to ride a bike from scratch. Before enrolling, please ensure your child can:

  • Start and stop safely
  • Ride in a straight line
  • Use their gears
  • Control their bike while looking behind and signaling

If your child is struggling with riding, consider removing the pedals from their bike to use it as a balance bike. Once they gain balance, reattach the pedals.

Important Information About Your Child’s Bike

To ensure safety and effectiveness, please make sure your child’s bike meets the following requirements:

  • Condition: The bike must be roadworthy. Our instructors will inspect each bike; any unsafe bike will prevent participation.
  • Fitting: The bike should fit your child properly. When seated, their feet should reach the ground with legs straight. The handlebars should be at a comfortable height.
  • Mechanical Condition: Check that all bike parts are in good repair and securely fastened.
  • Tyres: Tires should have sufficient tread and no bald patches. The sidewalls must be free of splits or bulges, and tyres should be properly inflated.
  • Brakes: Both front and rear brakes must function properly with minimal lever pull. If the levers touch the handlebar when applied, the cables might be too slack.
  • Safety Gear: If your child has a helmet, they should bring it to the course. Helmets should meet BS EN 1078 standards or an equivalent. We also recommend fitting a bell on the left side of the handlebars for added safety.

For more tips on preparing your child, follow this link.

Information for Parents and Guardians

To ensure your child gets the most from Bikeability, please make sure they attend every session and practice regularly. Consistent practice enhances Bikeability skills, so support and encourage your child to keep cycling both during and after the course.

Remember, this course does not teach children how to ride a bike. For guidance on preparing your child, click here.

How to Book a Place on the Bikeability Course

Training dates are coordinated through your school. You will receive a booking link via your school to complete online. If online booking is not feasible, contact your school for assistance. Be sure to complete the consent form by the deadline. Late bookings may not be accepted due to limited availability, and no child can participate without a completed consent form.

Children who can already ride and have their own bike are encouraged to enroll. We will provide spare helmets for those without their own.

Parental/Guardian Agreement

By completing the booking consent, you acknowledge:

  • Your child may participate in cycle training.
  • Your child must already be able to ride a bike; otherwise, they may be refused participation.
  • Instructors may reject your child’s bike if deemed unroadworthy.
  • It is your responsibility to ensure your child’s bike is roadworthy. If in doubt, seek advice from a professional mechanic.
  • Instructors can discontinue training if your child’s behavior or cycling ability is unsuitable.
  • Cyclewise is not liable for injuries, loss, or damage to cycles or personal belongings.
  • Your child will wear appropriate clothing and a helmet. Helmets will be provided if needed.
  • You consent to the Bikeability instructor adjusting your child’s helmet if necessary, but understand they are not responsible for the helmet’s condition or fit.
  • Collected data will be used for training delivery and monitoring purposes only. Refer to Bikeability’s Terms and Conditions for details.
  • You will encourage your child to practice between sessions and after the course.

By following these guidelines and preparing accordingly, you will help ensure your child has a rewarding and effective Bikeability experience.

 

If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact our Bikeability Office on 01768 -898775 or email [email protected].

Contact Us

Please contact us for more information about our Bikeability Cycle Training In Schools.

We will be able to let you know when delivery will be happening in your school and answer any questions you may have about the training.

We also offer Adult Bikeability Training and Cycle Training For Organisations. Click here for more information.

Bikeability Cycle Training

Bikeability Cycle Training
Visit the Bikeability website for more information

Bikeability Cycle Training

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