Why we offer cycle skills training
With new cycleways being built around Tāmaki Makaurau, more young children are able to cycle safely to school. That’s why we're funding cycle skills training for Year 5 students in many schools.
About the Grade 1 programme
Our instructors teach Grade 1 of the NZ Transport Agency (NZTA) BikeReady training programme. We offer this training free of charge to Year 5 students in Auckland. For schools with composite classes this can include Year 5 and Year 6.
Students learn cycle control skills with a focus on bike handling, confidence and safety as well as how to do a bike and helmet safety check.
During the class
Classes are approximately 3 hours and include a mix of theory and practical modules. The practical lessons are run at your school grounds while the theory components can be taught in the classroom.
Teacher support is required to help with the training session. Extra one-on-one help may be needed for students who are new to riding bikes.
Bikes and helmets are provided for the class. Students are also encouraged to bring their own bikes and helmets which can be checked for safety before the session.
Learning outcomes
After completing the course, students should be able to:
- carry out a simple bike check
- carry out a simple helmet check and fit
- check other equipment, clothing, and gear
- get on and off a bike without help
- start off and pedal without help
- steer and manoeuvre safely to avoid obstacles
- use both brakes
- use gears (where appropriate)
- look all around, including behind, without losing control
- use hand signals – stop, left and right turns
- stop quickly with control.
As part of NZTA guidelines, Grade 1 teaches competence in off-road environments only and does not in any way suggest that students completing the course will be ready to ride on the road. Grade 2 courses for riding on the road may be offered at Intermediate and Secondary level.
Contact us
Find out more about Grade 1 training for your school.