How to update your current instructor qualification

What is the Recognised Prior Learning route?

The National Standard Instructor qualification launched in 2007. In 2015, the Department for Transport (DfT) commissioned a report to review the quality of this training. It highlighted various inconsistencies across the industry. As a result, the DfT’s Bikeability Support Team identified the need to review the instructor qualification. 

The Level 2 Award in Instructing Cycle Training was introduced in 2019. This new qualification sits on a regulated framework, which is subject to external quality assurance. Tutors with a Level 3 Award for Instructing Cycle Training run the course. 

In 2018, a competitive process was undertaken to engage an Ofqual regulated awarding body. 1st4sport are the current organisation who administrate this award. 

Instructors with a National Standard Instructor status are required to convert to this new qualification by 31st March 2025. A Recognised Prior Learning route offered the opportunity to gain this new qualification, without having to start from scratch. Many industries use this approach to ensure consistency, despite different qualifications or backgrounds. 

The deadline to register for the RPL route to the Level 2 Award in Instructing Cycle Training has now passed. This route to the qualification is no longer available. All NSI trained instructors must now register and complete the full award if they wish to continue delivering. 

Do I need to complete a Recognised Prior Learning route?

If you are already registered for the Recognised Prior Learning route to the award then you must complete this course by 31st March 2025. Those that have not completed by this date will not be able to continue delivering Bikeability. 

How is the Recognised Prior Learning route funded? 

If you have already achieved your Level 2 Award in Instructing Cycle Training, you do not have to pay anything as you have received your qualification. 

If you are registered on to the Recognised Prior Learning course your recognised delivery centre will be able to claim £200 towards your course costs. This should cover the majority of your course costs. Please discuss with your recognised delivery centre to find out if you will need to pay additional fees. 

Click here for the contact details for all recognised delivery centres. 

What will I learn during the course?

The Recognised Prior Learning route reflects that you already practice as a cycle instructor. It is centred around one day of continuing professional development (CPD). This takes place in-person in the classroom. It includes practical activities, the opportunity to share good practice and be challenged. It is facilitated using a course handbook, which will be available digitally or in print. 

The course will include the following: 

Before the course: 

• expert witness testimony 
• self-assessment 

Continuing Professional Development day, including: 

• accessibility and differentiation 
• teaching strategies 
• risk benefit assessment 
• how to deliver National Standard cycle training 
• cycle maintenance 
• self-reflection and reviewing your delivery 

Post-Continuing Professional Development day: 

• observation of performance while delivering Bikeability training 
• personal development plan 

This assessment will provide instructors with opportunities to evidence prior learning against the criteria for the Level 2 Award in Instructing Cycle Training. You will then receive a Level 2 Award in Instructing Cycle Training.