It all started with a BikeSafe workshop!
Encouraged to take the next step to advanced training
Our PSNI BikeSafe Coordinator, Trevor Kirke, first met Stephen Mills five years ago when Stephen, a local riding instructor, attended a BikeSafe workshop to provide advice and information on how to access further advanced training. It was only after chatting for a while that it became apparent how significant an impact BikeSafe had on Stephen’s life and career.
Stephen was fortunate to have been raised in a biking family, his mum still riding pillion well into her 80s!
In 2005 he completed a BikeSafe workshop in Northern Ireland. He still remembers the day and how enjoyable it was. At the end of the observed ride, having been provided with constructive criticism in a friendly way, Stephen was encouraged to take the next step to advanced training.
As it transpired, a local Traffic Branch Inspector, Charlie, was on the point of retiring from the police and was setting up a riding school, specialising in Advanced Training. Stephen was put in touch and went on to complete his advanced Training using the Roadcraft syllabus. He achieved a RoSPA Gold pass and went on to complete IAM and BMF Blue Riband qualifications.
Not wanting to rest on his laurels, Stephen then went on to complete an Approved Motorcycle Instructor course, and started working as a freelance instructor.
All of this came from a BikeSafe workshop 17 years ago!
It wasn’t long before Stephen set up his own school, which has become one of the leading training providers in the province (Moto Training NI), the only one approved by a major motorcycle manufacturer (Kawasaki) and accredited by the MCIA in Northern Ireland.
More recently Stephen has become an IAM National observer for both bikes and cars, is the Chairman of the local IAM group and has been appointed the Chief Instructor / Examiner in NI for the BMF Blue Riband. Stephen has also gained the prestigious IAM Masters and a RoSPA Diploma in Advanced Instruction. He is also only 1 of 2 bikers in Northern Ireland on the IAM National Training Team.
The school has gone from strength to strength with a highlight coming in summer 2021 when record-breaking six-time WorldSBK Champion Jonathan Rea came to Stephen to help prepare him for his motorcycle tests!
All of this came from a BikeSafe workshop 17 years ago! So why not sign up for a workshop today. You never know where it could take you…
To find out more about the BikeSafe scheme, or book your place on a workshop, go to bikesafe.co.uk/northernireland
