Level 3 - Advanced cycle training
This programme is for those who have completed Levels 1 & 2, or those who have been cycling regularly on off-road and quiet roads but still lack confidence in busier more complex traffic conditions. Alongside the teaching of more advanced manoeuvres, clients will also have an opportunity to review and polish techniques taught in earlier courses. The purpose of Level 3 training is different to Levels 1 and 2 - instructors will now be asking clients where they want to go on cycle journeys, and equipping them to set out with confidence rather than just teaching cycling skills. As well as the traffic manoeuvres, additional training is available on the other elements that make up a journey such as carrying luggage.
The objectives of Level 3 training are:
- The client may select a specific journey such as a trip to work leisure or school locations that can be made regularly
- At the end of a programme of Level 3 training clients should enjoy taking cycle trips on a variety of roads and be developing a variety of trips
- They will have learned techniques for moving fluidly through traffic and moving more efficiently than congested vehicles
- Clients will be able to control their cycle competently, confidently and consistently - the three C's - through as series of cycle manoeuvres on roads
- Cycling is developed as an enjoyable, healthy activity that enables people to make journeys through a wide variety of traffic conditions
Experienced instructors at levels 1 and 2 will have to significantly develop their skills to deliver a Level 3 course. In particular, they will have to plan on road journeys for themselves with their clients and develop the skill of demonstrating and instructing while on the move. They will also have to recognise when less confident clients are uncomfortable and need additional coaching.
What you must do to meet The National Standard:
- Know the likely requirements of clients requiring Level 3 training
- Have assessed the needs of clients individually and have a programme of training to achieve Level 3
- Know methods, techniques and exercises to deliver the Level 3 training
- Be able to train in both the theory and practice of cycling as required by clients
- Demonstrate all skills and activities and accompany clients on all trips
- Be able to give feedback on progress towards Level 3 standards
- Assess achievement of standard by a variety of approaches
You must demonstrate that you can train and assess clients in:
- 3A All Level 2 manoeuvres
- 3B How to use roundabouts
- 3C How to use junctions controlled by traffic lights
- 3D How to use multi lane roads and turn off into them
- 3E An understanding of filtering and an ability to decide when to filter and when to wait
- 3F How to use both on and off-road cycle facilities
- 3G Hazard perception and strategy to deal with hazards
- 3H An understanding of route planning
- 3I Demonstrate a basic understanding of the Highway Code, in particular how to interpret road signs
- 3J Demonstrate an understanding of safety equipment and clothing
- 3K Different types of cycle and their purpose
- 3L Keeping a bicycle roadworthy
- 3L Relevant accessories
You must demonstrate by your work that you have been trained to take clients from Level 2 standard to Level 3, or introduced clients directly to the skills of Level 3.
By the end of the training programme, clients will be able to make a trip safely to school, work or leisure on busy roads and using complex junctions and road features.
Level 3 Course Content
Click here to download Level 3 Course Content and examples of best practice training material
