Year 11 Brookfield School pupils got behind the wheel at school to learn how to drive safely.
Brookfield students try the Young Driver scheme
The 15 and 16-year-olds got a unique chance to be buckled up in the driver’s seat and drive around a specially marked course on the school tennis courts.
The Young Driver scheme, sponsored by Goodyear, challenged 30 pupils to have their first time behind the wheel with an instructor weaving in and out and around a roundabout of cones.
The Goodyear scheme teaches young people theoretical aspects of the Highway Code and practical road safety skills ahead of their 17th birthday when they can officially take their tests. The computer theory test is an interactive driving experience, which puts them behind the wheel to face road hazards.
Sascha Cooper, 15, said: “I was a bit nervous, but it was good. I felt quite confident when I was in there. I’ve learned to be calm in a car and not to worry when my test comes along.”
She said practising the theory test meant she learned road signs she did not know before, which will aid her experience of learning in two years time.
Cameron Shepherd, 15, tries the hazard perception test
“When I learn to drive I will know a lot more about what to do and I will be a lot more confident,” she added.”
Tom Rock, 15, said: “I’ve learned about what different signs mean and about the speed limits in built up areas and rural areas.
“It gives an insight into the things you don’t already know.
“When in the car with my friends or family I might think about how difficult it is to drive and the rules they have to drive to. I’m really excited to take my test, pass and get a car.”
Staff behind the initiative hope to give young people on the threshold of the legal driving age a good foundation of knowledge in a bid to reduce national figures that one in five drivers has an accident within the first six months of gaining their licence.
The overall aim of the project is to get the driving academy theory test on the national curriculum.
Brookfield students get behind the wheel and learn about the driving theory
Steven Mroczkowski, communications specialist for Goodyear, said: “It’s making sure we equip the future young drivers so that they drive safely on the roads.”
He commended the Brookfield students on the theoretical questions and hazard perception test and added: “They’ve all done very well on their scores in the theory test, with some getting 23 out of the 24 questions asked – so they’re retaining the information. They’ve enjoyed it.”
The Young Driver scheme provides children aged 11 to 16 with driving lessons on private land. For more details visit www.youngdriver.eu.