Training is a good way of increasing your confidence – and in the long run, the enjoyment of your journey!
South Gloucestershire Council employs 'Bikeability' cycle instructors to deliver high quality training.
What is Bikeability?
Bikeability is the Cycling Proficiency Test for the 21st century, designed to give the next generation of children the skills and confidence to ride their bikes safely. To get their Bikeability award, children will be instructed on how to ride their bikes to the Government-approved National Standard for Cycle Training, which sets out the training and skills essential for making cycling trips on road. The standard has been developed by over 20 organisations and is maintained by the professional body for cycle training, the Cycle Training Standards Board.
Who can get training?
Most of our training is run through schools but we will consider requests from other organised groups or individuals.
For further information email cycle_training@southglos.gov.uk.
What's the purpose of the training?
- To encourage a long-lasting and positive attitude towards safe cycling
- To develop a positive attitude of responsibility relating to the ownership of a bicycle, including its maintenance
- To promote cycling as a healthy and efficient form of transport as well as something that is fun
- To improve cycle control skills
- To develop looking and listening skills and the ability to recognise and assess potential risks and hazards
- To further develop knowledge and understanding of the traffic environment
- To encourage the use of safety features associated with cycling, including helmets, lights and reflective and fluorescent materials
Cycle Training in Primary schools
If you are a school wishing to book a FREE cycle training course there are two levels of cycle training available:
- Level 2 training is on-road training aimed at pupils in years 5 and 6. The training consists of 5 x 1 1./2 hour sessions with the first sessions on the playground and the rest out on the road Numbers are limited to 6 pupils per group. A roadworthy bicycle and properly fitted cycle helmet is required.
To book a course please go to www.southglos.cycletms.com
School holiday cycle training
Details of the latest school holiday cycle training dates are available on the betterbybike website under other websites.
Cycle Training in Secondary schools
- Level 2 training is on-road training aimed at pupils in years 7 and above who have had no previous cycle training. The training consists of 5 x 1 1./2 hour sessions with the first session on the playground and the rest out on the road. Numbers are limited to 10 pupils per group. A roadworthy bicycle and properly fitted cycle helmet is required.
- Level 3 training is offered to pupils in year 7 and above who have already received cycle training in Primary School. The first session is on the playground followed by a bicycle maintenance session and then two, 2 hour training sessions on the road. This training focuses on busier roads and where possible the route from home to school is covered. Numbers for on-road training are limited to two pupils per instructor up to 5 instructors available. A roadworthy bicycle and cycle helmet is required.
To book a course please go to www.southglos.cycletms.com
Adult Cycle Training
If your someone wishing to return to cycling and would like help to gain confidence with on-road riding, South Gloucestershire Council can provide you with on-road cycle training at a time that suits you; we have male and female instructors available for 1:1 or group tuition.
Alternatively you may wish to leave the car at home and cycle to work, and need some guidance on riding in today’s busy traffic. We can ride the route with you and give you advice on safe cycling, route planning and negotiating those busy junctions.
Interested? You Must:
• Own a roadworthy bicycle.
• Have a properly fitted cycle helmet (we can provide for a small fee).
The benefits of cycling
• Cycling is fun, sociable and enjoyable.
• It can improve your physical activity and your mental and social well being.
• It can increase your confidence and self esteem.
• It is an activity that can be undertaken with family and friends.
• Unlike the gym it is a relatively cheap form of exercise and can be done at a time that suits you.
For further information on on-road cycle training please contact a member of South Gloucestershire Council’s Road Safety team on 01454 868449.
To book an individual lesson please go to www.southglos.cycletms.com