Cyclist Training
The Cycling Proficiency Test has now been replaced by an improved training course known as the National Cyclist Training Standard. This new standard, called BIKEABILITY, is supported by Cycling England and has been developed by over 20 expert organisations including RoSPA and CTC. It has been designed to provide a modern, nationwide scheme that caters for today's road conditions. Instructors have been trained by Accredited Instructor Training Providers to deliver cycle training to the National Standards for children and adults. Many also have experience in training clients with special needs.
The new proficiency training programme is in three parts:
- LEVEL 1 - Basic bike handling skills. This is conducted in a controlled environment away from roads and traffic.
- LEVEL 2 - Cycling on quiet minor roads. On-road training for those who have completed Level 1 and are considered capable of dealing with traffic on quiet roads for short commuting journeys or when cycling to school.
- LEVEL 3 - Competence for all cycling trips. This level trains riders to make journeys in a variety of traffic conditions competently, confidently and consistently.
For more information visit www.bikeability.org.uk or contact the national cycle training helpline 0870 607 0415.
To find a National Standard Instructor near where you live go to www.ctc.org.uk/cycletraining. This web site carries a list of all approved instructors and much more information about Bikeability and how you can become a qualified instructor. It is not necessary to belong to the CTC to access this information.
In Hertfordshire cycle the Road Safety Unit provides training. For information contact Hazel Clarke or her assistant Nick Truran on 01992 556808 or email cycle.training@hertscc.gov.uk. The address to write to is:
Hazel Clarke
Road Safety Unit,
County Hall,
Pegs Lane,
Herts,
SG13 8DN.
More details can be obtained from the cycle training page of Herts County Council website www.hertsdirect.org.
If you would like to become a qualified instructor then Hertfordshire County Council can arrange the necessary training. Above contacts will provide full details of what is involved.
In Buckinghamshire a list of approved cycle trainers in the county can be found on the County Council's web site www.buckscc.gov.uk. On the A to Z click on Cycling and then Training.
Buckinghamshire County Council also offer instructor training programmes that meet the new national training standard and result in an NVQ in cycle training. For more information phone 01296 387192 or email cycling@buckscc.gov.uk.
For more local contacts visit the Cycle Aylesbury website www.cycleaylesbury.co.uk.