Press Release
New programme puts young people in the driving seat
Youth Services, in partnership with Northern Constabulary, Highlands & Islands Fire Rescue Service and Brae Garage, have just completed a training programme that aims to turn younger people into safe drivers.
“Momentum” is a UK Youth accredited project that supports young people to learn about safe and responsible road use and vehicle maintenance. It is an informal education programme that uses young people’s interest in cars as a starting point for learning.
The 30 hour programme began at the Brae Youth Centre in April this year and was open to 12 young people from 15 – 17. The course included input from youth workers, a qualified driving instructor and an experienced mechanic and involved representatives from Road Safety, the Police, the Fire Brigade and local businesses.
“Momentum” encourages positive attitudes towards driving and aims to equip young people with the basic knowledge and practical skills they need to be safe drivers.
It has three key elements:
- In the Mind – encouraging young people to consider the issues surrounding driving and vehicle ownership
- Behind the Wheel – basic driving tuition delivered by a qualified driving instructor
- Under the Bonnet – where young people, under the guidance of a mechanic, learn about basic vehicle care and understand the importance of regular maintenance
Neil Hay from Brae garage said, “We felt that it went really well and that all the young people were interested. It is a very worthwhile project to be running”.
Zai Vessey, one of the participants in the project said, “Momentum was fun, interesting and informative all at the same time. My favourite part was the driving lessons; it gave you practical skills to use in the future.”
Youth Services hopes to run the programme again later in the year if they can secure external funding. The participants will shortly be attending a celebration event to receive their UK Youth accredited certificates for all their hard work.