Trail Academy: Intro Jumps/Drops Skills Session - Duke of Kent School, Ewhurst

Open to any age as it is ability based. This session isn't suitable for Green level riders.

Designed for riders who are new to jumping and drops, or looking to build confidence and develop the fundamental skills to ride them safely and effectively. Using the purpose built coaching area, MTB Hopper ramps and carefully selected trail features, riders are introduced to the techniques that form the foundation of successful jumping and drop riding.

Riders will learn how to:

• Adopt strong, balanced body positions when approaching jumps and drops
• Generate stability and control through the bike using effective body movements
• Manage take offs and landings safely and smoothly
• Use their legs and arms to absorb impacts and maintain balance
• Control speed and line choice when approaching features
• Develop confidence with wheels leaving the ground in a controlled manner

All features used during the session are optional and introduced progressively. Riders will never be required to attempt any feature they are not comfortable with, and choosing to watch, repeat earlier exercises or opt out of specific features is always supported.

Coaches focus on key beginner skills: fundamental body position and balance, speed control and approach technique, front wheel lifts and wheel placement, safe take off and landing mechanics, and building confidence over small jumps and drops.

Price per session is £40.00.

Bike hire is available at £20 per three hour session, from a fleet of 2026 Specialized mountain bikes in sizes from small kids' bikes up to adult sizes. Please note your child's age and height when booking.

Staying for the whole day? The Kids Holiday Lunch Club (£10) looks after your child during the lunchtime break between sessions, indoors in the warm or outside if the weather is nice, with toilets on site. It does not include food: pack a lunch with your child's name clearly labelled, plus a carrier bag for wrappers and leftovers.

Location: Duke of Kent School, Peaslake Road, Ewhurst, Surrey GU6 7NS. As you arrive at the school driveway, take the first right hand turning by the lodge house towards the sports fields and follow the road down to the gravel car park on your right. Don't drive up to the main school building.

What to bring on the day: a mountain bike, a mountain bike helmet in full working order (not BMX) and gloves, appropriate clothing (long trousers) and footwear including a waterproof jacket (clothing and shoes can get muddy by the end of the session, so a change of clothes may be handy). Snacks and a drink. The team conducts a safety check on all bikes and advises on correct set up before every course.

Source: The Trail Academy session page