Brakes are put on cycling proficiency programme

A notice was sent to parents of a local primary school, warning that the cycling proficiency programme had been paused.

It was hoped that more teachers would be recruited soon to help deliver the training.

Colin Le Page, manager strategy and policy at Traffic & Highway Services said the course was important for providing children with the skills and confidence to safely cycle in Guernsey and promoting physical activity.

‘Ideally the programme requires five fully-qualified instructors, along with volunteer helpers from within the schools or parents/carers.

‘These positions are not full-time established posts,’ he said.

‘Between them, instructors carry out an average of 50-60 hours each week during term time to deliver the programme. Two instructors are moving on to new ventures and so we are looking for two people to fill these positions.

‘Just at the moment, while recruitment is undertaken, the programme will be running at a reduced level, however, once the team is back up to full strength the full programme will be able to continue.’

On average it can take up to six months to qualify as a Bikeability instructor.

‘Training will be provided to successful applicants, which includes an induction programme overseen by a qualified trainer from the UK and then coursework, followed by a final assessment,’ Mr Le Page said.

‘While completing the coursework, the trainee instructor is able to support local qualified instructors in delivering the programme.

'Qualified instructors are required to undergo annual training and continual professional development to retain their qualification.’

Hundreds of local primary school pupils undertake the basic level one cycle training every year.

And in 2016 the scheme was expanded to offer level two training to give young people more cycling skills.

The training is provided within schools to students in years 5 and 6.

Level one tuition is carried out in the school playground, and introduces young people to the basics of cycle control and balance and teaches the ability to manoeuvre around obstacles all within a controlled and traffic-free environment, while also being introduced to the basics of cycle maintenance, how to slow down and brake correctly, and to be aware of their surroundings.

After completing level one, children are considered to be confident enough to be introduced to level two which involves cycling on the roads.

‘This further teaches observations of risks and how to navigate through traffic and junctions, how to pass stationary vehicles, understand road signals, signs and road markings and how to share the public highway with other road users,’ said Mr Le Page.

‘Approximately 400 young people complete their level two course each year.’