Ride Well - Schools cycle education programme

The Ride Well programme aims to equip students with the skills they need to enjoy riding their bikes, whether for recreation or transport.

The programme is underpinned by, and presented in accordance with, the principles of the Waka Kotahi - New Zealand Transport Agency's Bike Ready programme.

Funding for the programme is provided by the Invercargill City Council, the Southland District Council, and Waka Kotahi - New Zealand Transport Agency. The programme is provided at no cost to participating schools, and is presented by Cycling Southland.

Grade 1 (Preparation for on-road riding) is targeted at students from the Year 4 level and up, and aims to equip riders with the skills and confidence they need to ride more often. The programme is presented with a strong emphasis on learning through play, ensuring that students have fun while gaining essential bike handling skills.
Training takes place in an environment away from cars, like the school playground or court, with the programme being presented in two 90 minute blocks, preferably on two consecutive days.

Students develop balance and bike control skills for:

• starting/stopping and turning 
• riding with one hand to signal 
• looking all around (including behind)

They also learn how to check that their bikes and helmets are roadworthy and ready to ride, and learn how their choice of clothing can affect their experience on the bike.

Additionally they start learning how to cooperate with other riders around them.

For more information on Ride Well, please contact Cycling Southland Development Officer Glen Thomson at glen.thomson@cyclingsouth.org.nz