Most young people look forward to learning to drive when they turn 17; it’s a milestone in becoming an adult and a big part of becoming independent. Coleg Gwent students at Pontypool Campus recently got a glimpse of what it’s like in the driver’s seat, with the emphasis on being a safe driver.
Students took part in different Mega Drive workshops which highlight the hazards and potential dangers of driving, through a series of interactive activities.
The initiative is a multi-agency project which brings together local authorities and agencies responsible for road safety promotion, as well as Fire and Rescue and Police Services.
From the essential documents you need to drive and guidance on buying a car, to the effects and consequences of drink and drugs and what to do at the scene of a crash, students progressed from a simulated car journey to taking the driver’s seat in a real car at the end of the session, accompanied by an approved driving instructor.
Head of Learner Services at Pontypool & Usk Campuses, Sian Hughes, said: “It raises awareness of hazards and potential dangers when driving and always gets a good response from the students who take part. It’s informative and quite hard hitting so what they learn should stick with them for years, making them safe and careful drivers.”
