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8 May 2025

ACT parent company Bira has welcomed the Bank of England's decision to reduce interest rates from 4.5% to 4.25%, calling it a "much-needed boost" for the retail sector, including for cycling...

8 May 2025

ACT parent company Bira has responded to the news that the 144-year-old Beales department store is staging a "Rachel Reeves Closing Down Sale" in its final weeks of trading, with giant yellow...

2 May 2025

Could the UK cycling industry be showing signs of renewed momentum? Following a challenging period marked by falling sales and overstocked inventories, overall trends and sales figures from...

2 May 2025

The Netherlands is set to legalise electric scooters and other light electric vehicles on public roads from July 2025, provided they are registered and display a license plate.

30 Apr 2025

The ACT has welcomed the announcement of a parliamentary inquiry into e-bike products not meeting safety regulations, which has been launched “in context of dangerous low-quality e-bike...

29 Apr 2025

Edinburgh has been named the UK’s top city for bike commuting, with 10.00% of its workforce choosing to cycle to work, according to new research.

28 Apr 2025

The Labour Government’s new Employment Rights Bill is set to be in force this year and the new regulations will impact high street retailers up and down the country.

25 Apr 2025

ACT parent company Bira welcomes the Chancellor's announcement of plans to create a level playing field for British businesses against unfair international trade practices.

15 Apr 2025

Retail Crime Remains Alarming - Bira's Latest Survey Reveals Urgent Need for Action

11 Apr 2025

Bira has cautiously welcomed the Prime Minister's announcement this week on plans to put 'thousands of Bobbies back on the Beat' with a new neighbourhood policing guarantee.

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

Posted on in Business News , Cycles News

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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