Monday 21st October 2024
Dear Parent/Carer,
We have been given the excellent opportunity to provide FREE Bikeability Training to 90 children in Year 5 & 6. Note that you must register your interest in order to acquire a place for your child(ren).
Places will be offered on a first come, first served basis. Training will take place during five days of 90 mins lessons and will take place over the course of one of the weeks outlined below:
Monday 18 – Friday 22 November 2024 (5 x 90 min lessons)
Monday 25 – Friday 29 November 2024 (5 x 90 min lessons)
Monday 2 – Friday 6 December 2024 (5 x 90 min lessons days)
This safe, structured and standardised programme is designed to make your child a more competent cyclist and prepare them for eventually cycling on road. All workshops take place at Devonshire Hill School during the school day.
How to secure a place for your child:
- Reserve a place: please make sure you read the attached important information before reserving one of the available spaces via the ParentMail shop.
- Complete and return the consent form: Once Your booking is reserved your child will be sent a ‘Bikeability’ consent form to complete. A parent/carer must complete and return the consent form in order to confirm your booking. Without this form your child will be unable to participate and you could lose your place.
- Ensure that your child attends school over the training dates: training will be carried out by Cycling Instructor LTD, the borough’s cycle training provider
The attached information is aimed to answer any questions you may have.
Yours sincerely,
Mr Slav Anisowicz | Leader for PE /Sports & PSHE
Useful Information & Frequently Asked Questions:
Bikeability is the nationally recognised cycle training programme.
It’s about acquiring the practical skills to cycle safely and with confidence on today’s roads.
For children to participate in school Bikeability training, they must have basic riding skills (without stabilisers). Free individual training may also be available in your area and is a great way to get your child riding prior to the course commencing, so they can then participate.
There are three Bikeability levels two of which are suitable for primary aged children:
Level 1 is designed to give your child control over his / her bike and takes place in groups in a space away from traffic such as a playground or closed car park.
Level 2 will ensure your child is prepared for short journeys such as cycling to school. Training takes place in small groups on quiet, local streets, giving trainees a real cycling experience.
What does my child need to take part in Bikeability?
Your child will need a bike which is in a roadworthy condition, the right size for them, have pumped up tyres and two working brakes. Instructors will show children how to check their bikes at the start of the first session and will ensure that your child’s bike is safe for training purposes. BMX bikes are permitted in most circumstances so long as the bike has working brakes, and has not been adapted to the extent that it is no longer suitable for use on the road. The instructors will have the final say on whether your child’s bike is safe for them to complete the training on but allowances will be made wherever possible.
What if my child does not have a bike?
Cycling Instructor LTD may be able to arrange for your child to borrow a bike for the training. Please ensure that you make a note of your requirements on the participation form provided to avoid disappointment
What should my child wear to take part in Bikeability?
In most cases, your child may wear their normal school clothes, suitable for the season and weather. Excessively loose clothes may be hazardous and should be avoided. In colder months, warm layers and gloves are recommended. High visibility tabards will be provided.
Does my child need a cycle helmet?
We encourage all children to wear a helmet. Please see the consent form for more information about wearing a helmet for Bikeability activities.
My child didn’t complete the Bikeability training. What happens now?
Your child will be given some feedback from their instructor on areas that need a bit more work. It is recommended that you discuss these with your child so that they can be clear on how they can improve their skills and confidence. You might be able to help your child practise these areas, or you might want to sign them up for further free training or holiday courses. Check out the Cycling Instructor LTD website for details.
My child has completed Level 2. What next?
Bikeability is the gateway to all kinds of fun experiences by bike – the training is just the start! If your child is interested in cycling and wants to do more, they might want to join a local cycling club for BMXing, mountain biking or racing. Ask your child’s Bikeability instructor for advice on which groups are good for junior members and beginners. A great way to practise the Bikeability training your child has received is to try cycling as a family to school or the local shops.
Is there free cycle training available for adults?
Yes, most councils offer free individual or group training for adults and this can be a great way to understand better what your child has been taught and support them towards independent cycling. See the Cycling Instructor LTD website for details.
