Anyone in the motorcycle industry who would like their kids to enjoy motocross as part of the school curriculum should act now.
They have until 30 October to register their interest through their children’s school for teaching in 2015. They and their schools can still apply for the following years during the application window advertised on the Edexcel website.
The opportunity arises thanks to the determination of off-road motorcycle instructor Simon Newell of Chiltern Young Riders.
He has spent the last two and half years lobbying the exam board Edexcel, the Department of Education and Ofqual – the Office of Qualifications and Examinations – to overturn what he describes as “their blanket ban on motorsports”. No motor sport activities had previously been allowed in the GCSE PE list.
Newell, who runs Chiltern Young Riders and is one of four Kawasaki off-road experience providers, said: “I overturned the ban last Christmas and it has taken nine months to write and rewrite the criteria for MX teaching to be accepted.
“Everyone says that no-one is doing anything proactive to introduce biking to new riders. Well this is the biggest opportunity for ages.
“Mothers, the natural opponent of motorbikes, will hopefully see the activity as a little more credible and acceptable now it is available under PE subjects.”
Newell added: “The position is kids need to ask their schools to send in an application form MLN1 before 30 October for it to be assessed next year.
“Some could miss out and no doubt there will be some resistance from PE teachers because it’s bikes.”
Newell will be glad to answer any questions relating to this activity with GCSE PE from either parents or schools.
Chiltern Young Riders has provided motocross training for more than 14,000 kids in Hertfordshire since 1989. It says it gives the opportunity for people upwards of four years old to experience the thrills of off- road bikes in a safe, controlled and caring environment.
“We seek to blend fun and excitement while instilling consideration for other children and a healthy respect for the bikes they ride,” its website says.
Simon Newell: 07957200471