To ask the Minister for Infrastructure when a review of the Cycle Proficiency Scheme was last carried out.

The Cycling Proficiency Scheme was externally reviewed in 2013. The Department subsequently updated the Scheme and associated resources in 2015 which brought it broadly in line with cycle training across the UK. The current Cycling Proficiency Scheme sits between National Standards levels 1 and 2, with the main difference being that on-road training is an option for schools to consider at the end of the scheme. The ongoing effectiveness of the scheme is also monitored on an annual basis by Northern Ireland Statistics and Research Agency (NISRA) and a report card produced to document the results.

The Cycling Proficiency Scheme is offered to all primary schools and has consistently been supported and valued. I’m pleased to say that, since this year’s scheme was launched last month, the level of interest from schools wishing to participate is extremely encouraging.