Bikeability is the government's national cycle training programme. It helps children learn practical skills as well as understanding how to cycle on today's roads. Bikeability cycle training equips children with vital life skills. Pupils not only learn to cycle, they gain independence, social skills and a sense of wellbeing.

Erewash School Sport Partnership run the Bikeability programme in school. Pupils have the option to take part, however must bring their own bike into school. All bicycles need to be in tip-top, road-worthy condition before starting on the course. The below ‘ABCDs’ of cycle maintenance will help you prepare:

• AIR – Have your tyres got enough air?
• BRAKES – Do the front and back brakes work properly?
• CHAIN – Have you oiled it recently?
• DIRECTION – Are your handlebars fixed on tight?  Is your seat on tight and pointing forward? 

We offer a free bike health check in school, this will include tyre checks, brake checks and to check helmets are fitted correctly. To take part in Bikeability all children must wear a correctly fitted helmet. 

Bikeability Level 1

Level 1 is an exciting gateway to starting a cycling adventure.  Level 1 takes place off-road, on the school playground. This means that children can learn in a traffic-free environment. Most children take part in Level 1 during Year 3 or 4. 

Pupils learn to:

• Maintain their cycle: make sure the ride is in tip-top condition and make simple repairs
• Glide: smooth, calm and collected
• Control their bike: including setting off, cruising, slowing down, braking and stopping
• Pedal: without feeling wobbly or out of control
• Be aware of their surroundings: looking behind and turning around obstacles

Bikeability Level 2

Level 2 teaches children how to grow more confident with each turn of the pedal.  Expert instructors will lead riders onto quiet roads, to experience 'real' cycling. Most children take part in Level 2 at school during Year 5 or 6.

Pupils learn to:

• Start and stop with more confidence
• Pass stationary vehicles parked on a road
• Understand the road: signals, signs and road markings
• Negotiate the road: including quiet junctions, crossroads and roundabouts
• Share the road with other vehicles