Frequently Asked Questions
What level of experience do I need to do this course?
A basic knowledge of cycle maintenanceis essential, but you don’t need to be an expert. Our experienced tutors will cover all information in a clear and structured manner and wewill provide comprehensive teaching materials.
Which qualification will I achieve?
City & Guilds Level 2 Certificate in Bicycle Maintenance. You will receive a certificate in the post from City & Guilds a few weeks after successful completion of the course.
What is the course structure?
This is a ten day course. Teaching days will be as outlined on the website: normally this will be Mondays & Tuesdays for 5 consecutive weeks.
Do I need to attend every day?
Yes, it is essential to attend all ten days of teaching.
How is the course assessed?
You will be assessed on each individual unit of the course as and when the material is covered. The course is carefully designed to ensure there is ample time to introduce, teach and practice each component, before each individual completes a short formal assessment. You must pass all assessments to gain your qualification.
What happens if I fail an assessment?
We will attempt to re-assess individual units within the timescales of the course, wherever possible, to ensure that each learner achieves the Level 2 qualification. However, if this is not possible, failed units can be re-taken at a later date by mutual arrangement, although this may incur additional cost.
Where is the course delivered?
At Life Cycle UK’s purpose built workshop in “The RID Store” building in the Car Park of HMP Bristol, Cambridge Road, Bristol BS7 8PS. This is a publically accessible building sited on a non-secure area of the prison estate: you will not come into contact with any prisoners. Directions will be sent out with booking confirmation.
What time will I need to get there each day?
You will need to be there from 9am to 5pm.
Is there somewhere to park my bike/car?
The easiest way to reach us is by bike. There is secure bike storage on site. HMP Bristol is just off Gloucester Road, which is well served by local busses. You cannot park your car on the prison site, so will have to use nearby residential streets.
Do I need to provide my own lunch?
Each day will have a 1 hour lunch break. You will need to provide your own lunch. There are numerous shops and cafés a short walk away on Gloucester Road or you are welcome to bring your own food and eat it on our premises - however, please respect the Tutor’s right to a lunch break of their own and the fact that they will be preparing the afternoon session. Tea, coffee and snacks will be provided.
What will I need to bring?
Please bring proof of identity, a pen and a notebook.We provide aprons, but as this is a hands-on course suggest you wear old clothes which you don’t mind coming into contact with grease, oil etc.All tools and equipment will be provided.You do not need to bring your own bike as we will provide bikes to learn on in the workshop.
What is the group size?
Our workshop can accommodate up to 6 students per course.
Can I pay a deposit?
Bookings more than 8 weeks in advance can be secured with a £250 deposit. This is non-refundable. The balance is due 8 weeks before the course start date.If booking within 8 weeks of the start date the course fee must be paid in full at the time of booking. This is non-refundable.
What is your cancellation policy?
If you notify us 8 weeks prior to the course start date and we can fill your place, we will refund you the course fee – minus the 25% non-refundable deposit. Cancellations less than 8 weeks prior to the course start date are non-refundable.
Can I change the date of my course?
If you wish to change the date of the course you are booked on, you must contact us at least 8 weeks prior to the course start date. If we can fill your place then you may transfer onto another course. If we cannot fill your place, you will be charged in line with our standard cancellation terms (above).
Other queries? Call us on 0117353 4580 or email
Life Cycle UK 0117 353 4580 Registered Charity no: 1077575