The purpose of the Mountain Bike Instructors Award Scheme is to promote the safe enjoyment of mountain biking in an off-road environment. The scheme provides training and assessment in the technical and group management skills required by those who wish to lead groups in a variety of on and off-road environments in the UK and abroad.

Course fees

course fee:  £235 including logbook, registration and certificate

If you have a group of 6 or more, please contact us for discounted group rates.

Examples of applications of the qualification

*Teachers using level 1 to bring mountain biking into their curriculum, and level 2 to lead more demanding rides e.g. during
aspirations week.
*Military personnel leading groups in Adventure Training.
*Outdoor Pursuits instructors looking to expand their repertoire.
*Cycling club members looking for accreditation to lead group rides.

Standard Learning Credit Scheme

The MIAS Level 1+2 qualification is accepted under the Standard Learning Credit Scheme, SLC, for all regular MOD personnel. More information is available from DIN 2008DIN07-103.

Course syllabus

Group management + communication
Navigation + Route planning
Risk assessment
Equipment checks
Riding Skills
Basic / Emergency repairs

Scope of the scheme

MIAS Mountain Bike Leader Level 1
Non Technical Terrain – (2 days) this award allows access into low-level terrain, with few potential hazards, i.e. country parks, canal towpaths, and non-wilderness areas where help is almost immediately accessible. Includes blue forest trail routes.
MIAS Mountain Bike Leader Level 2
Technical Terrain – (2 days +) this award allows access into open country, with the potential hazards that surround such terrain. The leader will operate within 30 minutes of cycling assistance. This award can be used outside the UK in altitudes above 600 meters to lead groups on cycle/mountain bike routes that are defined by map and ground.
Both Level 1 & Level 2 courses are run together. Candidates and the course instructor will decide after the initial assessment period which certification the individual candidates will undergo on the course.
The course has national accreditation with The Association of British Cycle Coaches (A.B.C.C.), Investors in People Award and is recognised by the Adventure Activities Licensing Authority (AALA), Adventuremark.
For more information about the MIAS qualification visit the MIAS website Leader Award page.

Further requirements

In order to practice as a mountain bike instructor you will need a relevant  first aid certificate (preferably an outdoor course).
We recommend: www.reallygoodfirstaid.co.uk
You will also need insurance. Basic policies are available from the CTC and from the ABCC.