Frequently asked questions

Mountain bike Instructor Award Scheme

1. What is MIAS?

The Mountain Bike Instructor Award Scheme (MIAS) is a structured instructor qualification system that trains people to safely teach and lead mountain biking activities.

2. What qualifications will I receive?

Successful candidates receive an official MIAS instructor certification for the level they complete.

3. What Training will I receive?

MIAS Level 1,2,3 are primarily assessment courses, If you're unsure of where you are or would like to attend a training course then please look at the Mountain Bike Skills Course (MBS).

4. What pre-requisites will I need?

You will need to have a minimum of 10 logged mountain bike rides, you will also need to be familiar with the Skills Matrix which can be found on the MIAS page.

Ideally you will already hold a suitable 8hr (Level 1) or 16hr (Level 2 or above) first aid certificate or be working towards one.

5. Do I need to know how to Navigate?

You will need to have a good understanding of Navigation, including where you can ride legally, Route planning and understanding of relocating.

If you are not experienced with Navigation then we would recommend joining one of our NNAS Courses, this takes you from a complete novice to experienced.

6. Can I do the course on an e-Bike?

In essence yes, however you would be expected to complete all of the required Skills elements. The qualification you would receive would still only enable you to guide analogue bikes. If you want to guide e-Bikes then you would need to do the e-Bike bolt on course.

Our suggestion would be to complete the course on an Analogue bike and then add the e-Bike bolt on if required and as a CPD course.

7. What happens if I Defer / fail the assessment?

Candidates who do not pass can usually retake the assessment after further practice or training. We will give you full feedback and create an action plan.

8. Do I need insurance to work as an instructor?

Yes. Unless you work for a centre, instructors will need to obtain public liability insurance before delivering paid coaching sessions.

You have the opportunity to join the Association of British Cycling Coaches (ABCC) and as part of the membership you will get insurance.

9. What are the timings of the course?

Timings will slightly differ depending on location, however as a rough guide we go from 0845 - 1600 day 1 and the 0900 - 1600 day 2.

10. When do we get Course information and Logbook?

We send out Joining Instructions once you have confirmed attendance and paid your invoice.

The Logbook will be supplied on Day 1 of the course and then is yours to keep with feedback and development points entered at the end of your course.

11. When do we get Course Certificate?

Certificates will be sent out after the course and may take up to 2 weeks to arrive, you will receive an email certificate from MIAS directly a couple of days after the course.

12. How long does the Qualification last?

You will need to continue to be a member of MIAS, hold a First Aid certificate and keep a record of your Riding, whether thats Leading or Personal rides.

Its also recommended to complete CPD every year and attend the annual MIAS Conference.

If you have any other questions then please contact us