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17 Apr 2026

The Bikeability Trust is set to receive £78 million as part of a £108 million Government funding package to boost walking, wheeling and cycling across England, marking the largest...

17 Apr 2026

An independent bike shop has reopened its doors less than 24 hours after a ram raid saw around £40,000 worth of stock stolen and a further £50,000 in damage caused to the premises.

16 Apr 2026

The ACT is urging independent bike shops to enter the first ever Local Bike Shop Awards before entries close on Sunday 19th April.

16 Apr 2026

Consumer finance is entering a new phase in the UK, shaped by tighter regulation, evolving customer expectations, and increased scrutiny on outcomes. We’ve explained the key things you...

10 Apr 2026

It’s easy to forget the moment your love for bike shops began. Mat Clark, owner of BRINK - a UK-based business specialising in cycling retail, brand strategy, and industry insight -...

8 Apr 2026

Bike frame and fork protection specialists BikeWrap has confirmed its sponsorship of the Cytech Pub Quiz, part of the build up to Local Bike Shop Week next month.

2 Apr 2026

Bikebook has announced a new integration with Shopify

1 Apr 2026

An awards scheme celebrating independent bike shops that go above and beyond for their communities launches this week.

30 Mar 2026

ACT parent company Bira has warned that falling retail sales in February are an early sign of consumers reining in their spending amid growing economic uncertainty.

26 Mar 2026

A flagship cycling borough in outer London is poised to lift its eight-year ban on dockless e-bikes, with Waltham Forest Labour Party pledging to introduce a scheme if it retains control of...

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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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