About the Bikeability Scheme
Bikeability is a cycle training programme which can help develop practical skills and understanding to keep children safe when cycling on the road.
It also gives them the confidence to get out and about with all kinds of cycling.
Bikeability is practical and professional training that aims to leave cyclists more skilled and confident once they’ve taken part.
Visit the Bikeability website for more information about the scheme.
Who can take part
Children must be a minimum of 10 years of age and able to ride their bike without stabilisers to take part in a level 1 and 2 combined course.
If your child achieves a Level 1 standard in the playground assessment, training will continue to level 2 on the public highway. For this reason, written consent and your child’s commitment to good behaviour is needed.
Children will not be allowed to take part in the training without these.
In the interest of safety for all, we reserve the right to decline training:
- to any child who cannot physically control their bike
- if it's felt that your child's behaviour is affecting the safety of the scheme or others enjoyment.
What you'll need
All cyclists and instructors will be issued with high visibility safety wear.
All cyclists must have their own cycle helmet and roadworthy bike.
Instructors will not carry out bike repairs. Most bike shops offer a free bike checking service which we would encourage you to use. To avoid disappointment please contact your local shop to book this service before the course takes place.
These local shops offer a free bike checking service:
- Halfords: you can use their online service to book an appointment or phone 01634 829 091
- The Bike Warehouse: email gillingham@thebikewarehouse.net or phone 01634 571 093
- Create The Way: 01634 799 803.
Bikes will be checked as part of Level 1 and if considered unsafe by the instructor, training cannot take place.
What your child will learn
Your child will need to demonstrate the following:
- ride your bike using the gears (if it has them)
- make your bike go where you want it to, including moving around objects safely
- control the bike with one hand while signalling the correct way
- stop quickly if needed
- look all around you when you’re riding, including behind, without wobbling.
You can use bikes without gears on this training but it will make it harder for your child.
Levels 1 to 3
There are 3 Bikeability levels. Each is designed to improve cycling skills for all levels of experience.
Levels 1, 2 and 3 take trainees from the basics of balance and control, all the way to planning and making an independent journey on busier roads.
Level 1
New riders learn to control and master their bikes in a space away from traffic such as a playground or closed car park.
Trainees are usually in a groups of 6 to 12. Individual training may also be available in your area.
At Level 1 trainees can:
- make sure your bike is in good condition and make simple repairs
- make smooth, calm and collected movements
- control your bike, including:
- setting off
- cruising
- slowing down
- braking
- stopping
- learning to pedal one handed
- pedal without feeling wobbly or out of control
- be aware of your surroundings, such as looking behind and turning around obstacles.
Level 2
Level 2 takes place on local streets, giving trainees a real cycling experience.
Trainees learn how to deal with traffic on short journeys such as cycling to school or the local shops.
Trainees are usually trained in small groups (up to 6 trainees per instructor). Individual training may also be available in your area.
At Level 2 trainees can:
- start and stop with more confidence
- pass stationary vehicles parked on a road
- understand road signals, signs and road markings
- negotiate the road including quiet junctions, crossroads and roundabouts
- share the road with other vehicles.
Level 3
Level 3 gives trainees the skills for more challenging roads and traffic situations.
Trainees are usually trained in small groups of up to 3, or 1-to-1. This is so training can be tailored to individual needs, such as a route to work or school. It also includes planning routes for safe cycling.
At Level 3, trainees can:
- use the best riding position for any situation
- ride alongside other cyclists
- ride on more complex roads. This might include:
- busier roads
- more complicated roads
- roads with speed limits over 30mph
- negotiate more complex roads, for example:
- junctions controlled by traffic lights
- multi-lane roads
- cycle lanes
- confidently respond when a situation changes, for example, when a vehicle pulls out in front of you.