Young people are being offered the chance to learn what it takes to become competent drivers through a course aimed at the 16-year-olds.
Would-be young drivers will learn road safety and have the chance to get behind the wheel on a private road network. During these practical sessions, they will learn basic car handling skills in a safe environment, on this special course which is run in partnership with North Avon Driving Instructors’ Association and South Gloucestershire Council.
The Junior Drivers course targets young people before they reach their 17th Birthday, to help raise awareness about the responsibilities involved in becoming a driver and to stress how important the right attitude is in keeping them safe. Those attending the course will be offered practical advice on applying for their provisional licence, taking a theory test, basic car maintenance and the Highway Code essentials. The course also teaches youngsters about the possible consequences of road traffic accidents, highlighting the high crash statistics involving young drivers, in an attempt to make them think twice about taking any unnecessary risks behind the wheel.
Alan Hale, senior road safety officer, said:
“This course is invaluable for young people looking to gain the confidence and skills required to become a competent driver. Nationally, one in five newly qualified drivers will have a crash within six months of passing their test. And with 17 to 25 year old drivers representing just 7% of licensed drivers, it is alarming to see that they are involved in 13% of all injury accidents.”
“The benefits of this course are that students are given the basic car control skills in a safe environment teaching accurate and controlled steering, clutch control and changing through the lower gears, so I would urge parents to enrol their child. There are plenty of courses coming up so perhaps this could be the best birthday or Christmas present you can give to your son or daughter.”
The next course starts on 3rd November 2011 and runs for six weeks. It costs £96, which includes six theory sessions and six 1-hour practical sessions on the road with a qualified instructor.
Further course dates are planned for next year starting on the following dates:
- 5th January 2012
- 23rd February 2012
- 19th April 2012
- 14th June 2012
- 6th September 2012
- 1st November 2012
Call 01454 260011 to book a place.
Source: South Gloucestershire Council
