CTC Wessex Cycling has been providing funds to train Bikeability Instructors for several years now, and the Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole Council schools’ Bikeability programme that they work in has become highly popular. So much so, that there is now an urgent need for more instructors to support the rapidly expanding scheme, particularly in the Poole area. BCP Council and CTC Wessex Cycling are working together to set up an instructor training course within the next 3 months to train up to 4 new instructors. We would love to hear from you if you would like to train for this role and qualify as an instructor. The course itself typically runs for 4 days from 9.00 to 5.00 and will likely be held in the Poole area.
We personally work as a Bikeability Instructors, and it is a fabulous way to introduce children to the pleasures of cycling and to give them the skills to ride on the roads. The work itself is mostly during the spring, summer and autumn: The working hours are in some cases during school hours, but often are after-school as well from 3.30 to 5.30. Typically the courses they teach run over 4 days, Monday to Thursday. Instructors work varying hours, depending on their circumstances, with some almost full-time running 2 courses a day during school hours and an after-school course. Others work just the after-school hours. There is considerable flexibility in when and where to work, but it does require commitment to at least 100 hours teaching a year to maintain teaching skills and the Bikeability Instructor accreditation. Instructors need to be reasonably fit and able to cycle up to 20 miles each day, and be ready to work outdoors in all weathers.
The cost of the course that is being fully-funded by CTC Wessex Cycling and BCP Council is £700 per trainee and if successful leads to and NVQ Level 2 qualification in Cycling Training. After qualification, instructors can expect to earn around £240 for each 8-hour school training course completed. Other shorter courses may also be provided by instructors at similar hourly rates.
If you are interested, please email Rob Ward to request a place on the course at robfward@yahoo.co.uk Due to the pressing need for further instructors in the Poole area, applicants who can cover this area will be given priority for this course. Please indicate in your email if you can cover the Poole area.
Kind regards,
Stephen Gray, Cycle Training Co-ordinator
Rob Ward, President, CTC Wessex Cycling
