Bikeability cycle training

What is Bikeability?

Bikeability is 'cyclist training' for the 21st century, designed to give the next generation of riders the skills and confidence to ride their bikes on today’s roads.

We constantly review our 'offer' and have a suite of Bikeability training that we can offer schools, community groups and members of the public.

• Learn To Ride
• Bikeability Balance
• Bikeability 1,2 and 3
• EBikes
• Half term and holiday training

We encourage participants to bring their own bike, as that is the bike that they are familiar with. However we have a fleet of bikes that are available for primary school age children if they do not have access to one of their own. We can also access adapted bikes for riders that may have special needs through our partner organisations.  You do not have to be able to ride already to participate in our training offer but you do need to make us aware so that we can support you.

A child in the Bradford District will typically start Bikeability lessons in years 4, 5, 6 or 7, progressing through Level 1 in their first session and then completing Level 2 in sessions 2 and 3. Certificates and shiny luminous badges are awarded to children who successfully complete each level. Level 3 can be completed when the cyclist has gained more experience of cycling.

In a school setting our team of instructors have the flexibility to tailor the training to fit the school and pupils. When we are onsite and in dialogue with teachers we will adapt the programme to best fit the development of the participants. We will encourage progression through as many of the levels as is possible within the skill set of the pupil and the time frame given.

Bikeability was developed by more than 20 professional organisations including the Royal Society for Prevention against Accidents and is supported by cross-Government departments including the Department for Transport, Department of Health and Department for Children, Schools and Families.

So far, millions of young cyclists have been trained across the country and thousands of coveted Bikeability badges have been awarded. The ultimate vision is that no child should leave primary school without the opportunity to take part in Bikeability training.

The Three Levels

There’s a Bikeability level to match every ability, whether you’re just starting out or already have some good skills and just want to use your bike more safely and more often. You might start from the beginning at Level 1 and train all the way through to Level 3, or you might dive in with Level 3 if you already have lots of cycling experience. It’s important to remember that there’s always something new to learn, and that the right level of Bikeability training will help you to develop the best habits that will keep you safe whenever you cycle.

Level 1

During Level 1, you learn to control and master your bike. The training takes place in an environment away from cars or traffic - usually in a playground or closed car park.

Level 2

During Level 2, you will get out on to the roads. Level 2 gives you the confidence and cycling experience so the you are able to deal with traffic on short journeys such as cycling to school or to friends.

Level 3

During Level 3, you will gain the skills and confidence to tackle busier roads. It deals with route planning and, depending on what you need, can include roundabouts, A roads, traffic lights, filtering through slow or stationary traffic and turning into multi-lane roads.

Who to contact

If you are interested in becoming a Bikeability school please contact the Road Safety team on 01274 437409 or email roadsafety@bradford.gov.uk.

How much does Bikeability training cost?

Training is generally free of charge but schools must fulfil certain criteria (see below)

How long will the training take?

The Combined Level 1 and 2 course is 9 hours long and is generally delivered over 2 school days. The course can be delivered over a different time frame in consultation with the Co-ordinator. The Level 3 training is structured differently please contact the Co-ordinator for further information. Remember further adaptations can be accommodated when we are on site.

Does the school need to assist with the running of a Bikeability course?

Yes. A school must send out permission slips and other associated paperwork and provide assistance where a child may have a disability or learning need.

What equipment is needed?

The children need to bring their own working bike and helmet. We can often loan bikes and helmets for children to borrow but they are subject to availability. If equipment is borrowed it will stay on the school site for the duration of the training. We also support children with special needs please inform either the co-ordinator or the instructors.

How many children can a school have trained?

We expect 100% participation regardless of ability however, a school must provide a minimum of 10 children for a course to run but for efficiency 12 children is best. There are no limits to the number of courses a school can book within a year.

Are there any booklets available with course?

Yes. Booklets are provided to the participants once the training has commenced.

Covid

There may be specific challenges that have risen due to the pandemic. We will continue to deliver the training where possible using the latest Government and industry guidance. 

Covid-19 could impact on our training offer. Please contact us and discuss your requirements.

Do you need a bike?

Visit the Bike Libraries website.

See Bikeability in action

If you would like to view Bikeability in action please visit the Bikeability website.