Accelerated learning for young drivers
Warwickshire County Council has put the wheels in motion for a special driving skills course for 15 and 16-year-olds during Autumn half term 2009.
Only one hundred places are available for the Pathfinder Driving School which starts on 24 October, so young people are encouraged to sign up quickly.
During the five day course, participants will be introduced to the essential driving skills and knowledge needed to enjoy a safe and long driving career.
By the end of Pathfinder, the young people can expect to be driving in a confident, assured and responsible manner, and be well on their way to reaching a standard required to pass a driving test.
They will also have a firm grasp of advanced driving theory and basic vehicle maintenance, and an understanding of the risks, dangers and responsibilities that come with driving.
The course takes place at Stoneleigh Park near Coventry and Long Marston Airfield near Stratford upon Avon, locations chosen to offer some variety of driving terrain. It is being run by the U17 Drivers Pathfinder Ltd on behalf of Warwickshire County Council.
Warwickshire County Councillor Richard Hobbs, portfolio holder for community protection said: “This is a fantastic opportunity for young people to get a head start on the route to gaining their full driving licence. Pathfinder gives young people a broad introduction to driving and gives them the skills to deal with many situations whilst on the road.
“Research shows us that Pathfinders courses cut the chance of having an accident in half for participants, so these young drivers should be safer and hopefully need fewer lessons before passing their test.“
Paul Silverwood from U17 Drivers Pathfinder Ltd added: “The high casualty rate affecting young drivers is preventable with early and appropriate training.
“We are delighted to be working with Warwickshire County Council and partners on this initiative which will provide a blueprint that can be replicated across the country and deliver a sustained improvement to the unnecessary waste of young lives.”
The Pathfinder course costs £100 and is being sponsored and supported by the AA Driving School. Students will drive their own family car and need to be accompanied by a responsible adult throughout.
To book a place, or to find out more about Pathfinder, please visit http://www.warwickshire.gov.uk/pathfinder or call 01926 412740.