Bikedock Belles

The four day long course took place at the Ozone centre in Belfast from 13th - 15th September. All the trainee instructors were put through their paces with a variety of workshops and mostly on road 'practical' training. The outcome of the national standards for an instructor is to deliver activities that enable the client to make their cycling trips of their choice, more often, more safely.

National Standards is broken down in to 3 areas:

Level 1

During Level 1 Bikeability training, 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. You will gain basic cycle control skills including starting and pedalling; stopping; manoeuvring; signalling and using the gears on your bike.

Level 2

During Level 2  training you will get out on the roads! Level 2 gives you a real cycling experience so that you are able to deal with traffic on short journeys such as cycling to schools.

Level 3

During Level 3 training you will learn the skills to tackle a wider variety of traffic conditions than on Level 2. When you reach Level 3 standard you will be able to deal with all types of road conditions and more challenging traffic situations. The course covers dealing with hazards, making ‘on-the-move’ risk assessments and planning routes for safer cycling.

If any one has any queries or would like to chat with Julie about setting up cycling training in your area, drop an email to: .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)

Ding Dongx

Julie