UK’s lack of motorcycle instructors could be turning people away
A lack of UK-wide instructors is proving to be a hindrance for many potential new bikers, with more people interested than there are trainers.
The UK seemingly has a motorcycle instructor shortage, as there’s not enough of them to meet the demand for new people wanting to learn to ride bikes, according to the Phoenix Motorcycle Training school.
You would think that for many riders the opportunity to turn their passion for two wheels into a full-time career could be an exciting prospect. However, there seems to be a lack of interest in doing so, and that is causing a ripple effect.
In 2024, data from the Motorcycle Industry Association (MCIA) revealed that just under 40,000 people passed their motorcycle test. But it’s at the CBT level where the demand to complete the one-day training course, compared to how many instructors are available, is felt the most.
Phoenix Motorcycle Training is issuing around 6,000 CBT certificates yearly, but its owner and chief instructor, Mark Jaffe, says there are more learners wanting to complete the course than they can take on, across several areas in the UK. He said:
“The lack of motorcycle instructors is a real hindrance in getting more people on two wheels. At the moment, we have more learners wanting to sign up for courses than we can take on because we don’t have enough instructors to train them.
“You would think that earning potential of up to £40k per year and the chance to turn motorcycling into a career would be enough to get bikers applying, but we are really struggling to find enough instructors to meet the demand in several areas around the UK.
“It’s not like we are looking for trained professionals either. You need a full, clean, motorcycle licence and a minimum of three years riding experience, but that’s about it. We have a fantastic training programme for our instructors to give them not just the skills to train people to ride bikes, but also a Level 3 Award in Education and Training (RQF), so they gain a teaching qualification applicable to any teaching job.”
If you’re someone who is interested in becoming a motorcycle instructor, now might be the best time to kick start your new career. Phoenix Motorcycle Training currently has roles advertised on its official website.
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After graduating with a sports journalism degree, Robert joined Crash.net to lead the WorldSBK coverage in 2021, while also providing MotoGP coverage. Fulfilling that role for over three years, Robert was able to put his knowledge about all things racing to the test.
