British Cycling and Trafford College team up to train hundreds of new cycling coaches

Over 170 sports coaches will take cycling coaching qualifications thank to a partnership between British Cycling and Trafford College.

Trainees will be able to work towards United Kingdom Coaching Certificates (UKCC) Level 1, Level 2 and Level 3 awards in Coaching Cycling - and demand for the qualifications is now at an all time high.

Those aged over 19 will learn skills that enable them to coach absolute beginner cyclists through to athletes performing at the highest levels.

Brian Cookson, President of British Cycling, said: “Continued success at the highest level is inspiring a boom in participation across the nation. Effective coaching is at the heart of cycling performance at every level of the sport and it’s crucial that coaches are given opportunities to develop, so that they can continue to inspire people of all generations to get into cycling and progress in the sport.

“We are thrilled to announce the partnership with Trafford College, which will not only help to provide more opportunities for coaches, but will also aid the development of our courses and enhance learner support.”

World and Paralympic Champion, Jody Cundy, has just begun a Level 2 Certificate in Coaching Cycling. He said: “As a rider, I have received an incredible amount of support from coaches over the years, who have been an invaluable source of knowledge and advice, and critical in helping me to reach my potential.

“I am now focused on developing my own coaching ability and these courses provide coaches with the chance to enhance their skills to help inspire and develop the next generation of riders.”

Level 1 coaching is suitable for those interested in helping groups of adults or youngsters in their club setting, while Level 2 is a further step on the ladder to professional coaching, with the opportunity to plan innovative group sessions or specialise in a particular discipline.

Level 3 allows coaches to train individuals in specific disciplines and analyse and improve their performance to the highest level.

If you're interested in coaching, click here to find out more about the British Cycling coaching programme.