Torq Zone Academy

Couldn't agree more although training can also be used to adjust attitude.

An interesting analogy. You'd probably find that drivers than went through a driving school to get their license are generally better drivers. Likewise mechanics having completed fundamental training are better qualified.

Just a correction. Yes indeed we do have a National Qualification for bicycle mechanics the Occupational Certificate: Bicycle Mechanic, NQF Level 4. However it is not three years but, depending on the learner, about six months. The beauty of the qualification is that it has a class based Knowledge and Practical component, a shop based Work Experience Component (read apprenticeship), and an External Independent Summative Assessment (read trade test). This approach to training creates skilled mechanics who; need less supervision; have more confidence; better problem solving skills; are motivated and strive to add value.

As above.

As all above it seems that your wheel was not probably dished when the wheel was built.

Before starting the Academy I worked at SAQA for six years developing qualifications for numerous sectors. I therefore have a good understanding of the NQF landscape, and trade or occupational related training. The National Qualification, when developed, will have a theoretical component, a practical component and a workplace component, very similar to the trade system. However unlike a trade such as the diesel mech there is not as much learning content so I do not think the training will be as longer than a year, if that. The absence of a National Qualification does not however mean that we should not make an attempt to establish a training standard in an industry that desperately needs it. Hence our introduction of Cytech. If you get a chance come make a turn at the workshop. I would love to tap your brain on this matter and hear your further thoughts, it sounds as if you might have experience in this sort of thing. PS. We have developed an "adopt-a-technician" programme for people wanting to sponsor someone who needs a helping hand. For this programme we, along with a recognised organisational developer, have developed an ideal brain thinking profile against which the candidate can be assessed to determine his/her suitability. We will also be offering discount on such a person's training.

Here is some clarity regarding some of the concerns raised in this thread. Cytech Technical is a bicycle mechanic training scheme that has been in existence in the UK for 25 years, and is widely regarded as the standard for bicycle mechanic training there. It will be difficult to find a better standard to introduce into the SA industry where, un-arguably, such standards do not exist. The concerns regarding costs are gravely overstated. At normal pricing Cytech Technical 1, with the Theory and Practical component costs a maximum of R5 400 (there is a cheaper option of completing the Theory online), Cytech Technical 2 R13 500, and Cytech Technical 3 R11 000, thus totalling R29 900. Currently at our Launch Promotion prices it will cost a maximum of, Cytech Technical 1 R3 900, Cytech Technical 2 R9 500, and Cytech Technical R11 000, totalling R24 400. (see http://goo.gl/dfcXzs) Not to forget that for already experienced mechanics we offer a Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) Assessment to Cytech Technical 2 which will cost R10 100 at normal price, but R7 100 for our Launch Promotion. Just keep in mind that such a person would have to complete the Cytech Technical 1 Theory online (£70, roughly R1800) first before being legible for the RPL Assessment. The above prices include the Cytech Technical manuals but no tools. Currently our training is not NQF aligned purely for the reason that no NQF registered qualification for bicycle mechanics is registered on the NQF, therefore no SETA accreditation can take place. We are rectifying this and have already submitted an application to the QCTO, the authority responsible for qualification development in the trades and occupations sub-framework, to develop a bicycle mechanic National Qualification. This might however still take some time to get done as the QCTO is inundated with applications for the development of qualifications. However, the certificate issued to the learner on completion of the various courses is issued by the Association of Cycle Traders (ACT) in the UK who are the owners of Cytech Technical. Cytech is in the process of expanding its footprint and is set to soon become the global standard for bicycle mechanic training. (see http://goo.gl/QtO7jC) To the home enthusiasts, yes you can continue learning processes off of Google and YouTube, there is nothing wrong with that. However our Home Mechanic course teaches you the principles or fundamentals of that process. Yes the courses may appear to cost a lot, but the return of investment and the benefits of highly competent and capable mechanics to the mechanic themselves, the LBS owner and the consumer should outweigh this. Apologies for the long winded response but I hope it has put the misunderstandings right.

We have plans to expand outside Gauteng, but this will not be for a while still. Until that time we recommend that cycle shops outside Gauteng start investing in the training of at least one of their mechanics through our Pretoria site.

Hi Welcome We have not as yet finalised the costs but I can assure you that it will be affordable and good value for money.

We will be offering a 2 day Home Mechanic course for the enthusiast. Alternatively, if the home mechanic wants a much more in depth understanding they can attend the Home Mechanic Plus course of 5 days along with the Cytech Technical 2 learners. All details regarding the above will be made available shortly.

We will also offer assessment for already experienced technicians with the awarding of Cytech™ Technical courses being based on competencies through experience and not experience alone. In SA we know this as Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL). We will make the process and costs available in due course.