The aim of the Cycle skills training programme is to increase the bike-riding competency of children, young people and adults.

The training is based on a national cycle education program, BikeReady which incorporates cycle skills training, to make bike riding safer and more fun from childhood onwards.

BikeReady has been developed by New Zealand Transport Agency (NZTA) and Accident Compensation Corporation (ACC).

The delivery of Cycle skills training in the Whangarei District is funded by the Whangarei District Council (WDC) and the NZTA. The programme is delivered through a partnership between Bike Northland and Sport Northland and is free to schools and all participants.

Cycle skills training in Schools

Cycle skills training in schools helps teachers to support student learning in two ways. Get easy access to bike skills training by professional instructors and use curriculum resources in the classroom. Participation in Cycle skills adds an authentic context for learning. Teachers and students can explore wellbeing (hauora), empathy, the transport system and active citizenship. The programme aligns with the New Zealand Curriculum, physical activity guidelines and the National Administration Guidelines.

Read testimonials from school staff and students…

How will Cycle Skills training benefit students?

There are many benefits to riding a bike. Trainees participating in the programme will:

improve their motor skills
experience a wide range of cycling activities
learn important road safety skills
develop independence and consideration for others

How does it work?

We offer two levels for schools for students between years 4-8. We can provide a modified programme for younger students. Please contact us to discuss.

Grade 1 usually takes between 2-5 hours in a non-traffic environment such as the school grounds or similar open space such as netball courts. Grade 1 is aimed at students aged 8 and over (Year 4+). The required skills are taught through a combination of fun drills and games.

Core skills covered in Grade 1

carry out a simple helmet and bike check
check other safety equipment, clothing and legal requirements
get on and off, start off and pedal
stop by using both brakes and cover brakes when riding along
steer the bike and manoeuvre safely to avoid objects
use the gears
looking all around including behind and over both shoulders, without losing control
cycle with one hand and signalling (stop, left and right)
stop quickly and with control

Grade 2 training takes 7-8 hours to complete. Training will take place initially in the school grounds and then move on to quiet streets near to the school or open area. Grade 2 is aimed at students aged 10 and over (Year 6+). We encourage teachers to join us on the roads if they are able to.

Core skills covered in Grade 2

identify some road signs and road rules
start and stop from the side of the road
ride along the road
pass a parked vehicle
pass a side road
turn left from a main road to a side road and from a side road to a main road
turn right from a side road to a main road and a main road to a side road
travel straight through at intersections
understand hazard identification in Grade 2 environments – with attention to driver blind spots
understand how to communicate with other road users

Cycle skills training for adults and workplaces

Cycle skills training is also available for workplaces and adults. With the rapid uptake of e-bikes and increasing awareness of the environmental and health benefits of commuting by bike, there are more people riding bikes. It is important for your own safety and that of other road users to understand the rules of riding on the road and have the skills to feel confident and competent riding your bike. If you or your workplace is interested in receiving cycle skills training please get in touch via the link below.

Get Cycle skills delivered in your Northland school or workplace…

Contact Us:info@bikenorthland.co.nz

For more information visit: www.bikeready.co.nz