Counties Manukau Sport

Pedal Power

Counties Manukau Sport - Pedal Power is a free cycle skills programme for Year 4 to 6 students. The programme is based on the Bike NZ Learn to Ride programme and incorporates some basic BMX skills which can be transferred onto a BMX track.

Our BikeNZ trained instructors work within the school environment to deliver the programme that teaches children how to: brake, corner, scoot, balance, stop, mount and dismount, and signal, fitting the NZTA Grade 1 cycle skills. The unique programme incorporates games to ensure kids have fun while learning essential cycling skills. All equipment is provided free of charge.

Sessions are 45 minutes to an hour in duration (dependant on school timetable) and the programme is run over 5 sessions. The sessions are generally held on a weekly basis.

The first session is a basic introduction which focusing on the fundamentals. From here each session builds on the previous skills taught, progressing into more advanced skills. Students’ ability varies therefore we ensure there are beginner (or non-rider) and advanced techniques students can work towards for each activity.

The sessions are broken down into modules which consist of different skills, progressions and games, and each session covers a new module.

Session 1 - Bike 101 (i.e. helmet fitting, bike check, scooting)
Session 2 - Getting started (i.e. straight-line riding, standing ride, pedal taps and turtle race)
Session 3 - Balance and braking
Session 4 - Corners and manoeuvring
Session 5 - Advanced Skills such as one-handed riding (signalling) and high 5’s

In some instances the 5th and final session can be held at the local BMX club so students are able to ride the track, build confidence, become familiar with the environment and practice their new found skills.

The introduction of the BMX club will be further supported by planned club run ‘Have a Go’ days.Once the programme start date and timetable is confirmed the Community Sport Advisor for Bike will meet with a staff member, sight the delivery area and do a RAM’s.

For a copy of our Pedal Power Cycle Skills Flyer .

Free Wheelin'

Balance Bikes

The balance bike programme CMS is developing called "Free Wheelin" was piloted in a school with such a positive response, with an increase in participation from the least likely students. The need for such a programme is high as the number of students who struggle to ride at a later stage in life is at an average of 5 per class.

Free Wheelin' is for young children (years 0-2) to further develop balance, coordination and most importantly, confidence, through the use of age apropriate games. These components are then transferable to be used either in the pedal power programme or cycling skills alike.

Our coaches are well experienced in teaching children to build confidence through riding. Initially, the session is 45-60minutes where the following modules are covered:

Safety (hazards, helmet check & fit, bike check etc)
Bike parts
Straight line
Gliding
Stopping
Looking
Turning

The introduction to bikes with pedals will be based on the ability to handle the above skills confidently, to which we can provide. We will be rolling this programme out in 2020. Such a great life skill.

Check out our Flyer Free Wheelin'

Bikes in School

Bikes in Schools is a unique concept which aims to provide all pupils at primary schools regular and equal access to a bike, bike helmet and specially designed bike tracks, within the school environment.

The aim is to encourage pupils to become more active and healthy, help them develop various bike skills; builds their self-esteem and confidence, all while in a safe and familiar environment.

By providing a complete biking package within the school that includes;

A fleet of new bikes
A bike helmet for every child
Combination of riding, pump and bike skills tracks
Bike storage facility (where needed)
Bike coach to introduce the project and teach basic riding skills

All bikes and helmets are owned by the school and remain on the school property. The tracks are built within the school property.

To check out the Bikes in Schools video please click here

Why is Bikes in Schools successful?

Impact: It generates positive impacts for all the children

Demand: All children want to ride bikes

Supply: A complete package is available on-site at the school

Effective: Provides high level of regular biking/physical activity

Simple: Low level of organisational input required from the school

Risk Management: Proven in-school programme is low-risk

Cost: Upfront investment of only approx. $150 per child

What is the main directly measurable impact of Bikes in Schools?

The regular access to and riding of a bike goes from approximately 30% of the pupils to 100% of the pupils. This impact is both immediate and measurable.

What are the other positive impacts of Bikes in Schools?

Feedback from Principals, teachers, parents and pupils continually state that it;

Raises the confidence and self-esteem of pupils through a fun activity
Delivers health and wellbeing outcomes for the pupils (and staff)
Provides an opportunity to self-manage risks within a safe environment
Instils the habit of using an environmentally-friendly form of transportation
Results in more children and extended family biking more often

For more information on the Bike On Charitable Trust please click here

Bike Programmes

Pedal Power

Free Wheelin'

Bikes in School

Clubs

Resources & Links