Free bike courses for pupils

As families dust off their bikes for spring, school pupils aged from nine to 13 can claim free Bikeability cycle training.

The Government approved training has replaced the outdated cycling proficiency test - designed over 50 years ago - and shows children how to check their bikes, how to control their bikes safely and how to ride confidently on quiet local roads.

Rotherham Council has been awarded more than £200,000 by the Government for the scheme.

Local cycle training cooperative, Pedal Ready, provides Bikeability in Rotherham’s schools.

Pedal Ready’s Clare Kelly has been rolling out the free training to primary schools over recent months, but says there is no time like the spring to get pupils ready for the expected summer of cycling in Olympic year.

She said: “We’d urge all schools to take up this free offer to make sure their pupils have training that will benefit them now and for the rest of their lives. Bikeability training makes child cyclists three times safer than those who haven’t had the training.”

After the council received further funding from the Government, adults and families can also sign up for free sessions to support their children’s Bikeability learning.

“Bikeability works best when parents can reinforce what their children have learned, some of which isn’t always obvious,” said Clare.

“For example, varying road positions to make sure drivers take notice of you, and how and when to look behind to control traffic speed and position.”

Schools or families wanting to take part should call 0114 2412775 or email [email protected].