Schemes

In an effort to increase the safety of children using bicycles as a form of transport, the five unitary authorities in South East Wales are funding cycle training programmes that teach pupils the importance of cycle safety. Qualified cycle instructors liaise with school staff and visit schools to present a series of lessons covering all aspects of basic cycle safety. Topics covered include basic cycle maintenance, the importance of using cycle helmets, and riding safety on the open road. Pupils participate in hands on practical training in a simulated environment conducted away from the road, in order to build confidence before venturing onto the roads themselves, with the local Road Safety Officer overseeing the final assessment to ensure standards are kept high.

Over recent years there has been a noticeable increase throughout all the Gwent authorities in the amount of children who have undertaken and in turn successfully completed this council funded programme in this past school year. As displayed in the graph below all Authority figures were up on last years totals, which is a very encouraging sign for Principal Road Safety Officer Penny Thorpe. "Cycle proficiency training gives children a good grounding for being a road user in charge of a vehicle. They will learn the importance of good observation and positioning which is vital to all riders and drivers. Cycle Proficiency Training has been operating in Gwent for many years now and I am extremely encouraged that it is increasing in popularity in schools."

The course is recognised as level one of the national standard for cycle training. Presently the council is investigating the potential for providing level two and three courses as well, which are aimed at increasing the cycle knowledge of teenagers and adults. For more information on any aspect of Cycle Training please email the road safety team through the Contact Us Page of Roadstuff

Alternatively if you require any replacement forms in connection with Cycle proficiency training please click on the relevant link below to download.

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Cycle Instructor Claim Form
Cycle Training Register
Cycling Proficiency Training Application Form