Pedalling into new experiences of work

This month, 26 students from North Star 240° were given an exciting, hands-on taste of working as a bicycle mechanic. The school sports centre was transformed into a bike mechanics workshop with all the tools of the trade. Rob from Bike Bristol inspired students from Year 7 to Year 10 with sessions on all topics from bike safety to ongoing maintenance.

Some students brought their own bikes in, and others worked on Rob’s bikes from his shop. Rob demonstrated skills from using a ‘noodle’ to mending a puncture to checking brakes. Students were then able to have a go at each skill and have their work checked at the end by ‘supervisor’ Rob.

A broad, interesting range of tools and specialist items used by Rob were shown to the students. As well as the workshop, Rob explained that in a customer-facing business such as the Bike Shop, he needed other skills – having the ability to care about and talk with customers and remaining calm under pressure when dealing with very expensive bikes. Students quotes included “I loved everything today “and one student asking Rob for work experience in the shop.

 

Finally, 2 bikes were made unsafe by Rob and students had a competition, working together in teams, to see who was able to make a safe bike fastest! Highlight was tearing around the sports hall riding the SAFE bikes at the end. Students were also told where they could do a bike mechanic course, gain a qualification, and get given a free bike at the end. Thank you Bike Bristol for inspiring all learners at North star.