A DRIVER training scheme which allows teenagers as young as 15 to get behind the wheel of a car for the first time is again being offered to schools across Nottinghamshire.
Nottinghamshire County Council is offering a pre-driver training experience for pupils between the ages of 15 and 17 as part of its ongoing programme of education for young people in a bid to cut road traffic casualties in the county.
The one-day sessions take place at the Nottingham Forest ground next month and come hot on the heels of a successful course held there in August.
Two more dates have now been set – Tuesday and Wednesday, 23rd and 24th October – in the Brian Clough stand and car park. The event runs from 9am until 4pm and costs £35. Pupils don’t need a provisional driving licence as the training takes place away from the public highway
All schools and colleges in the county are being sent invitations for their pupils and demand for places is expected to be high. Bookings can be made now by phoning 0844 980 8080.
“This course gives young people their first experience behind the wheel of a car in a safe, controlled, environment with fully qualified driving instructors,” said Coun Richard Jackson, chairman of the County Council’s highways and transport committee.
“The day also introduces them to the responsibilities that come with being a driver.
“Research shows that young people form and crystallise their driving attitudes well before they actually take to the road themselves, so it’s important that they receive the right message from the right people.”
According to research from the Department for Transport, youngsters form their driving attitudes long before they actually get behind the wheel of a car.
By the age of 17, when they can legally drive, they have very often picked up bad habits from watching their parents or other people with whom they regularly travel as passengers.
As well as two hours’ in-car training, the pre-driver training days also include advice on how to choose a good driving instructor and workshops on the responsibilities that come with being a driver, including the effects – and repercussions – of drink or drugs on a person’s driving abilities.
There will also be practical demonstrations of safe stopping distances and cornering techniques.
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