Setting the standard: The principles guiding Go-Ride clubs

Setting the standard: The principles guiding Go-Ride clubs

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At the heart of every great club is a clear set of principles that everyone can get behind. For Go-Ride Clubs, we’ve worked hard to define what really matters, drawing on feedback from club coaches and volunteers and researching what motivates young people to get involved and stay engaged in cycling.

Drawing from a wide base of research: focus groups with club coaches and volunteers, studies by Manchester Metropolitan University into young people’s motivations to cycle, and an evaluation of Go-Ride’s achievements to date. We took care to identify what’s essential and desirable to deliver the best possible experience for young people. These principles provide a shared grounding that guides everything we do.


These principles will be familiar if you’ve completed a British Cycling coaching qualification. Here’s a refresher and a reminder of why they matter.

Safe
Safeguarding is our top priority. British Cycling is committed to setting and maintaining the highest safety standards for children, young people, and adults alike. Our safeguarding strategy focuses on culture, environment, and operations, ensuring a holistic and proactive approach at all times.

Structured
Strong governance keeps clubs running smoothly. That means having the right people in place, clear policies, and reliable processes. Our club accreditation process benchmarks and supports good practice, helping every club maintain high standards.

Child-centred
Every decision we make puts young people first. We listen to their voices, involve them in shaping the services they receive, and prioritise what’s genuinely in their best interests. It’s not just about delivering for young people, it’s about empowering them to shape their own cycling journeys.

Inclusive
Cycling should be for everyone. We are committed to breaking down barriers to participation so that every child and young person can experience the joy of cycling. Inclusivity is at the heart of long-term engagement and success.

Dynamic
The future of cycling relies on energy, innovation, and adaptability. Clubs need to be ready to respond to challenges and opportunities alike. A dynamic approach keeps clubs resilient, relevant, and forward-thinking.

Fun
It’s simple but vital: young people have a right to enjoy themselves. Clubs must create positive, fun experiences where play is part of the mix. Happy kids are more likely to stick with cycling, benefiting clubs, communities, and the sport as a whole.

 
These principles underpin everything we do, guiding both the Clubs' team and the clubs themselves as we work together to build a stronger, more vibrant cycling community for young people. We look forward to working together through these principles.