Cycle training for children

One of the main crash causes involving cyclists is loss of control when riding along.

To help overcome this, Road Safety Units throughout the West of Scotland offer a cycle training programme to Primary schools. This programme includes the provision of in-service courses to teachers and volunteers, the provision of free cycling materials to participating schools and continued support and advice throughout the duration of the training programme.

While the cycle training programme will teach the basics to young cyclists at school, parents are made aware that they also have a responsibility in the road safety education of their children by reinforcing what is being taught at school.

Parents are advised that they can help by:

• providing their child with appropriate safety equipment
  
• assisting their child in finding a safer place to practise cycling manoeuvres on the road
  
• assisting their child with homework - both practical and theory

What cyclists can do:

• follow the Highway Code - don’t jump red lights or ride the wrong way up one-way streets
  
• think ahead - anticipate drivers’ actions and make eye contact
  
• be visible - ride well clear of the kerb, wear bright clothing, and always use lights after dark or in poor visibility
  
• ride positively and decisively - it helps motorists understand what you plan to do
  
• always look and signal before you start, stop or turn - ride a straight line past parked cars rather than dodging between them

What motorists can do:

• Think bike - expect to see cyclists and take care
  
• Slow down and drive smoothly - expect sudden movements by cyclists especially in windy weather or on bad road surfaces. Right turning cyclists need space and time
  
• Give cyclists space - at least half a car’s width, and never force past them
  
• Watch for riders on the inside when you turn left - don’t cut them up
  
• Park considerately - and always look for cyclists before opening a door