BIKESTART Cycling Training:

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Target Group:

The new BIKE START Cycling Training Programme that Dublin City Council has produced is at a level above the UK
National Standards for Cycling Training.
This programme is suitable for trainee pupils in senior primary schools from 4th class (10 years) for Level 1 theory to 6th Class (12 years) for Level 2 and 3 practical.

The programme in a shorter version will also be available for adults, wishing to return to cycling or starting out on a bike for the first time. A range of training material will be available to registered BIKE START trainers to deliver the Programme.   

Basic Aims of BIKE START:

• To promote knowledge and understanding of the principles of safe cycling.
• To encourage positive and responsible attitudes towards personal safety and  that of other road users.
   

Programme Links:

The content of the programme explores a number of strands and aspects of the Social Personal and Health Education (SPHE) of the primary school curriculum.

Programme Brief:

The BIKE START training course is part of the Road Safety Unit’s, primary schools Traffic Educational Programme and consists of four Levels:

Level 1 – Classroom Theory:

Level 1 is a classroom-based programme covering the theory of safe cycling and aims to raise the awareness and benefits of safer healthier cycling. Five modules comprise the theory of safe cycling and covers Bicycle Maintenace, Roadcraft & Rules, Road Hazards & Cycle Control, Communications & Road Signs and Planning a Safer Route to School.  Each module is covered in two sections an information/activity sheet and a test sheet for assessment.

This section is suitable for pupils from 4th class and can be taken whether they have a bicycle or not. A certificate of completion is awarded to pupils who complete all five modules within the class timetable. Trainee pupils will then be able to complete the next stage off-road practical training at Level 2.

Level 2 - Practical Off-Road:

Trainees must have completed Level 1 before completing this stage of the programme. Level 2 covers off-road practical skills training in the school grounds or yard, signs and equipment is provided by the Road Safety Unit to enable the trainer cover all aspects of skills required for understanding the safe use and
handling of the machine. A completion certificate is awarded to pupils who complete this stage. On average trainees needs approx. 6 hours of tuition to become competent in basic cycling skills. A BIKE START Pupil/Parent Guide is available from the Rod Safety Unit to assist parent’s deliver early cycling safety training to their own children. Trainee pupils in class will also receive a copy of the Pupil/Parent Guide to assist them during school training. Download a copy of the pupil / parent guide

  
Level 3 - On-Road Training Suburban Roads:

Level 3 section of the programme covers on-road training on quiet roads adjacent to the school and enables trainee pupils experience cycling in live traffic. Trainee  pupils must have completed Level 1 and 2 and must be in 6th class. In addition, they must have reasonable knowledge in and experience of practical cycling skills on-road.

Level 4 – On-Road Training Town Roads:

The Level 4 section of the programme covers on-road training on more ‘trafficked’ routes in the city and includes planning a journey to school or work. Trainees,  must have completed all three levels in order to commence this section of the programme. In addition they must have gained a reasonable knowledge in and experience of practical cycling skills going to and from school or work

Each trainee who completes the course programme at Levels 3 and 4 will receive a Progress Certificate for each stage of skills learned. This certificate will show how much progress the participant has made and if they have demonstrated an improved understanding of safer cycling and handling procedures.