Our BASE College course, in partnership with Borders College, is a programme unlike anything else currently available. Take your riding to the next level as you progress both technical skills and racecraft, whilst broadening your knowledge of the sport with your academic studies, culminating with a Higher National Diploma after graduating third year.
Two coaching sessions a week will see your riding improve quickly and consistently. Led by Andy Barlow, Mark Scott and Innes Graham, who between them have decades of experience in racing at the highest level, we’ll focus on everything from getting the basics right, to creative line choice, planning your race strategy, identifying pacing zones and much more.
BASE College isn’t just for aspiring racers though. While we spend a great deal of time developing your riding, allowing you to perform at the highest level on the most technically challenging trails in the UK, BASE also allows you to qualify as a Mountain Bike Leader and Coach as you progress into your second and third year of study.
Three days in college a week will see you cover topics from nutrition and psychology to sports development and strength training. First year graduates will gain a National Progression Award (NPA) in Achieving Excellence in Sport. Successful second year graduates receive a Higher National Certificate (HNC) in Coaching and Developing Sport, an award recognised by the Chartered Institute for the Management of Sport and Physical Activity (CIMSPA). Building from the knowledge gained in second year, the successful third year graduate will receive a Higher National Diploma (HND) in Coaching and Developing Sport. This Level 8 SCQF award is recognised by universities and in some cases can lead to advanced entry into 2nd or 3rd year.
A supportive and encouraging environment is crucial to every BASE student’s success. A culture based around an attitude of ‘it’s better to try and fail rather than not try at all’ means everyone is equally encouraged and motivated, and brings everyone up together.
So if you’re an avid mountain biker, looking to take your riding to the next level, train like a pro and deepen your understanding of the sport, apply for our BASE College course. We’re looking forward to riding with you!
Please contact andy@dirtschool.co.uk to register your interest and to find out more about our application process.