Salford City Academy’s Mikolaj Robak samples the wacky and wonderful world of Manchester’s Alternative Bike Co
Bicycle enthusiast Mikolaj Robak has had the perfect work experience, spending the week in the wacky and wonderful world of Manchester’s Alternative Bike Company.
During his placement Mikolaj, a year 10 student from Salford City Academy, learnt about the company and its incredible two wheeled creations, including the Shakesta – a bike that makes smoothies, the coinsta – a modern take on the classic penny farthing and the fuelsta – a bike that combines petrol and pedal power.
The Alternative Bike Company was formed by Mike Ferguson in 2010, from a passion for riding and a background in creating and developing unique bike based commissions, which also help promote healthy living in a fun and inspirational way. Mike agreed to take part in the academy’s placement scheme – his way of saying ‘thank you’ after the academy gave him a placement in its art department in 2007, where he shadowed an art teacher after finishing his university degree.
Commenting on his experience with the company, Mikolaj, who lives in Eccles, said:
“I like riding bikes and I was interested in learning more about them and working with them, which I have certainly done during the week. I also got to ride home on a different type of bike every lunchtime.”
Mikolaj’s bike maintenance efforts during his time at the company were praised by owner Mike who said:
“Mikolaj’s had a busy week doing lots of jobs for us. He’s been shadowing colleagues and showing a great interest in everything. He’s had a great attitude all week and has got really stuck into everything he’s been asked to do. We’ve been very happy having Mikolaj with us this week.”
Added Salford City Academy Principal Helen MacKenzie:
“Work experience is an incredibly important part of the curriculum at Salford City Academy, as it helps give our students direct experience of life beyond the classroom, seeing real working companies in action. This week has seen them cover a variety of different careers, from bicycles and butchers to fitness instructors and nurses.”
