Ex British Cycling Head of Education launches Manchester Cycling Academy

Dr. Vinny Webb, British Cycling’s former Head of Education, will debut a new full time cycling academy that will offer a BTEC based around Cycling Performance and Development.

Manchester Cycling Academy, reports VeloUK, will be the North of England’s only Sixth Form College style course that offers a qualification equivalent to a pair of A levels. The content will be broad, covering Sports Psychology, Physiology, Strength and Conditioning, Nutrition and various Coaching modules. Input will be provided from leading academics and practitioners from around cycle sport.

Webb’s Business and Technology Education Council (BTEC) will be among the first to carefully study cycling specific sessions that will be tailored to help students understand how to develop an edge for athletes under their wing.

Webb told VeloUk: “There are lots of talented riders who will jump at the chance to immerse themselves in a full-time cycling environment and we are looking forward to receiving their applications. This week’s launch is the result of over twelve months worth of work and we are absolutely thrilled to be finally ready to launch.

“Riders will receive first class education and coaching which will set them up for a career in elite cycling or associated professions. We will take a holistic approach to their development and the input they will receive from the panel of world class associates will set Manchester Cycling Academy apart as being the best in the nation.

“Riders will fit their cycling training around their academic studies with training usually taking place in the mornings, apart from Wednesdays when the whole day is devoted to training and bespoke cycling sessions.This will mean that they are in a full time cycling environment which will allow them to develop their skills ready for the next step-up.”

Stefan Hopewell, who joins Webb as a director says that the model deployed will differ from established courses, with a panel of academics to be recruited to develop course materials, as opposed to just one or two individuals.

Courses at the Manchester Cycling Academy can be registered for here. If mechanics is more your forte, here’s a round up of the UK’s top training schools.