Cycling proficiency
Barnet safe cycling scheme
Cycling has always been a popular activity for young people and it is important that children have the skills to keep them safe on our busy roads. We offer cycle training courses designed to help children develop a good attitude towards using the roads and reduce accidents. Year 6 and Year 7 cycle training schemes are available for pupils living or attending school in the borough.
Year 6 training
The course is free of charge and is offered to all Year 6 pupils in Barnet every year.
Courses take place during the school holidays at various sites around the borough. They are run on local roads and normally consist of two full consecutive days, with an assessment on riding skills and highway knowledge on day two.
Many secondary schools insist that pupils pass the cycle training course before they allow them to cycle to school.
The course could save children’s lives and also helps them learn the skills required for the next stage of training and eventually when they learn to drive.
If your child would like to join a course you will need to fill in an application form. Dates for courses and application forms are available from late January onwards. To apply, telephone 020 8359 7108 or email road.safety@barnet.gov.uk
Places on the courses are offered on a first come, first served basis.
Cycle instructors for Year 6 training
During the Year 6 safe cycling course, pupils with excellent cycle skills can become trainee instructors when they reach 13 years old.
If you have passed the Year 6 cycle training or completed the Year 7 and 8 route training and would like to become a trainee instructor for year 6 courses please call 020 8359 7108 or email road.safety@barnet.gov.uk
Enthusiastic adult cyclists with CTCUK training accreditation who would like to help train pupils can also call for an informal chat.
Year 7 and 8 cycle route training
We offer a cycle training scheme to Year 7 and 8 pupils who do not cycle to school at present but would like to, and whose parents are willing for them to do so.
Training is offered to the children free through their school and is targeted to their specific needs and routes.
Courses are run throughout the year and follow pupils’ routes to and from school pointing out the key hazards they will encounter and helping them to manage their risks.
An initial assessment of pupils cycling knowledge and ability might be needed. This will depend on previous training the child has received. Pupils who have passed their Year 6 safe cycling course can take part without needing an assessment.
If you are interested in this training for your Year 7 or Year 8 child, ask your school to contact 020 8359 7108 or road.safety@barnet.gov.uk
