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Experts share how to make your bike last longer – and why regular care pays off

Cycling experts have shared their top tips in a new Guardian feature revealing how simple maintenance habits can extend the life of a bike and save riders from costly repairs.

10 Oct 2025, more…

Scottish bike shop to celebrate 20-year anniversary with prize draw and instore event

An independent Scottish cycling retailer is celebrating 20 years in business this month with a prize draw and ‘celebratory cupcakes’ during an event at the shop.

24 Sep 2025, more…

Irish cycle workshop team achieves cycling industry accreditation with help from fellow ACT member

Dublin-based cycle workshop the Rediscovery Centre has achieved Cytech accreditation for its workshop team after completing advanced training with Activate Cycle Academy, an Oxford-based...

15 Sep 2025, more…

The ACT and Bikmo partnership helping independent retailers

With D2C bike brands facing significant headwinds, local bike have seen modest but real improvements in profits and prospects. Partnerships like ACT and Bikmo are helping independents strengthen...

11 Sep 2025, more…

Panel event hosted by ACT Director to focus on retailer insights from the shop floor

A panel event hosted by ACT Director Jonathan Harrison will focus on retailer experiences and how they are adapting to a number of challenges within the sector at this year’s inaugural...

4 Sep 2025, more…

Pre-registration now open for inaugural cycling industry event CIN Live 2025

Pre-registration has now opened for the very first Cycling Industry News Live (CIN Live) show, taking place on Sunday 14 and Monday 15 September 2025 at NAEC Stoneleigh, Warwickshire.

29 Aug 2025, more…

ACT to join industry leaders at brand new cycling trade event this September

The ACT is set to be in attendance at the inaugural Cycling Industry News Live (CIN Live) trade show, which is set to bring together industry-wide education, market insight and product showcases...

13 Aug 2025, more…

Cytech Grad Achieves Elite UCI Level 3 Mechanic Certification

A former student of South Africa’s Torq Zone Academy has taken a major step forward in cycling mechanic training after completing the prestigious UCI Level 3 Mechanics Course in Aigle,...

30 Jul 2025, more…

Activate Cycle Academy returns to major bike festival with Cytech training insight

Cytech training provider Activate Cycle Academy will be at this year’s Cannondale Malverns Classic Mountain Bike Festival over the August Bank Holiday.

23 Jul 2025, more…

Chief of Government cycling programme calls for national Action on cycle access

Urgent, collective action is needed to improve children’s access to bikes as “too many are being left behind”, according to Bikeability Trust chief executive Emily Cherry.

16 Jul 2025, more…

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Re-Accreditation of Torq Zone Academy: Meeting QCTO Standards for Excellence

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Re-Accreditation of Torq Zone Academy: Meeting QCTO Standards for Excellence

Posted on 27 Nov 2023

CytechTorq Zone Academy, Cytech's training provider and a leading institution of vocational training in South Africa, has been re-accredited by the Quality Council for Trades and Occupations (QCTO), for another five years, to offer the National Qualification Framework (NQF) registered bicycle mechanic qualifications and part-qualifications. This significant accomplishment underscores the commitment of the Academy to upholding the highest standards of education and training in the industry.

The QCTO, mandated by legislation, plays a pivotal role in overseeing the quality of vocational and trade education and training in South Africa. Institutions seeking accreditation or re-accreditation must undergo a thorough assessment of their programs, facilities, trainer qualifications, and overall adherence to QCTO guidelines.

“The re-accreditation process with the QCTO is a rigorous evaluation that ensures institutions maintain quality education, meet industry standards, and deliver relevant and updated curricula” says the MD, Graeme Stickells. “The successful re-accreditation of Torq Zone Academy speaks volumes about our dedication to providing top-notch training programs aligned with industry needs and regulatory requirements”.

Torq Zone Academy QCTO“The re-accreditation would not have been possible without the continued affiliation and support of Cytech” Graeme is quick to point out. “We have been offering the Cytech technical programme in South Africa for over nine years now as a dual certification. When we developed the NQF registered bicycle mechanic qualification and part-qualifications the Cytech technical programme was used as frame on which to add the componentry” he sniggers using bicycle analogy.

“Furthermore, this re-accreditation reaffirms the commitment of the Academy to continuous improvement. Torq Zone Academy remains proactive in adapting its programs to meet evolving industry trends, ensuring that learners remain competitive and capable of meeting the demands of a rapidly changing landscape. We intend to continue adding value to not only the South African industry but the broader Cytech community of expert practitioners as well” adds Graeme in closing.

In conclusion, Torq Zone Academy's successful re-accreditation with the QCTO underscores its commitment to quality education, industry relevance, and student success. As it continues to uphold these high standards, the academy remains a beacon of excellence in the realm of vocational training for the bicycle sector.

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