We want to make this as inclusive as possible and keep the costs to a minimum. Each block of 6 or 7 sessions will last half a term (dates above in red box) and will cost just £10 – this equates to less than £2 per session. The only other cost is membership to Nottingham Clarion Cycling Club at £5 per child per year.
The sessions are aimed at children that can already ride a bike and are in school year groups 1-9. The current plan is to split the children into three groups as follows and allocate a coach to each group:
Any bike that is in good working order, has both a front and rear brake, more than one gear and is an appropriate size for the rider. A hardtail mountain bike (no rear suspension) is a good, versatile bike that is perfectly suited to the trail. Cyclocross bikes or road bikes with wider, knobbly tyres can be used but are not ideal.
A well-fitting cycling helmet is mandatory. The only exception will be when the wearing of a cycling helmet is not compatible with a religion or faith.
Riders do not need to buy cycling-specific clothing. We just recommend clothing that is comfortable and safe for riding, taking consideration for the changing weather conditions. General close-fitting sports clothing is suitable; baggy clothing can get caught in moving parts of the bike as it moves around.
All coaches successfully completed their British Cycling Level 1 Award in Coaching Cycling, which covers topics such as the role of the coach, safeguarding, planning and delivering coaching sessions, techniques and skills, equipment, safety and risk assessment.
In addition, each coach holds a valid first aid certificate and has undertaken an enhanced disclosure and barring service (DBS) check.