Free, Fast and Nationally Recognised Qualifications for Experienced Mechanics

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Experienced bicycle mechanics in NSW can now gain nationally recognised qualifications through a fast-tracked and fee-free course offered through the Bicycle Mechanic Training Institute.

BMTI, a subsidiary of 5 Star Training and Consulting, is participating in the NSW Government’s Trade Pathways for Experienced Workers program to enable seasoned mechanics to increase their financial stability, job prospects and employability by completing a course qualification.

The Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) program gives them an alternative to the traineeship to gain a Certificate III in Bicycle Workshop Operations (AUR30220), which has been in place for several years but has not been a requirement for the industry.

The State Government is covering the full cost of training for all participants who can complete the qualification by 30th June 2024.

5 Star Training has 50 places for the training and they will be offered on a first-come, first-served basis, with several of those slots already claimed by applicants.

Meeting High Demand for Skills

Bike mechanics are among 56 industries included in the Trade Pathways Program to address high demand for skilled workers.

All qualifications are made up of unique units of competency, with a total of 28 units in the Certificate III in Bicycle Workshop Operations – 16 core units and 12 electives.

Core units include assembling new boxed bikes for retail and working in a retail environment, as well as units for the servicing, repair and overhaul of bike drivetrains, brakes, suspension and wheels.

Elective options include maintaining specialist bicycle repair tools, repairing bike frames, effective communication and packing bikes for transportation.

Participants who complete the program receive formal documents to support their knowledge and skills in a specialist subject.

Eligibility

To be eligible for the bicycle mechanic course, participants must meet the ‘Smart and Skilled’ eligibility criteria, be at least 21 years old, have a minimum of two years’ work experience in the bike industry and need to be currently employed in the sector.

Applicants must not be a current apprentice or trainee, or if a cancelled apprentice, that cancellation must be more than six months ago.

They must also be living or working in NSW, and an Australian citizen, Australian permanent resident, Humanitarian Visa holder or a New Zealand citizen.

Applicants for the course conduct a self-assessment of their current skills and knowledge, and can participate in any gap training as required.

They then submit a resumé letter, accompanied by an employer reference letter, as well as a portfolio of documents to support the candidate’s competency, such as job cards and certificates of prior learning.

Regular Guidance

Participants in the BMTI training will be guided through the whole Recognition of Prior Learning process by a 5 Star training assessor.

BMTI is a leading technical school, offering nationally accredited qualifications for bicycle mechanics through a traineeship or class-based learning pathways. It has been providing the Certificate II and III qualification in Bicycle Mechanics for more than seven years.

5 Star Training & Consulting is a Registered Training Organisation under the Vocational Education and Training Act 2011 and is registered to deliver training, conduct assessment, and issue qualifications in Bicycle Mechanics.

It is committed to supplying a high quality, efficient and an enjoyable learning experience for all students.

5 Star’s Bicycle Mechanic Trainer & Assessor / Traineeship Coordinator, Dan Brent, said mechanics are the backbone and often unsung heroes of bike businesses but many don’t get an opportunity to gain any nationally recognised documentation because the mechanics qualification is not a requirement within the Australian bicycle industry.

Dan said MC Cyclery mechanic Tim Peyrou is a prime example. He has been working as a bicycle mechanic for more than 20 years but remains without any nationally recognised documentation to support his skills.

“This program has also allowed Tim to identify any areas he may need to upskill to keep him current within the industry,” Dan said.

To request an RPL pack or for further information, please email info@5startraining.com.au, visit www.5startraining.com.au/bmti/home or phone (02) 4722 2471.