Driving Initiative Designed to Keep Young Drivers Safe on the Road

Year 13 and 14 students from St Colman's High and Sixth Form College, Ballynahinch, took part in a Young Drivers Road Safety Initiative at Bishopscourt Racing Circuit on Wednesday 30 September.

The event was organised by Newry, Mourne and Down District Council's Rowallane District Electoral Area (DEA) Forum and the Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service (Southern Command), in partnership with the PSNI, Newry, Mourne and Down Policing and Community Safety Partnership (PCSP), Crash Services, Bishopscourt Racing Circuit and Drive Techniques Driving School.

The initiative aims to educate young people about the responsibilities that come with driving and to increase awareness of the risks associated with speeding, distracted driving and other dangerous behaviours on the road.

Students received important information from Crash Services on the new Graduated Driving Licence (GDL) scheme, motor insurance requirements and the implications of penalty points for young drivers. Representatives from the PSNI also provided practical advice on safe driving practices, including the correct procedures when encountering emergency service vehicles.

A key highlight of the day was the opportunity for students to take part in a practical driving lesson with qualified instructors from Drive Techniques Driving School at the circuit, with the hands-on experience enabling participants to develop their driving awareness and gain valuable insights into road safety in a controlled environment.

Rowallane DEA Forum Chairperson, Councillor Jonny Jackson, who attended the event, praised the collaborative approach taken by all partners involved.

"Road safety education is vital for young people as they prepare to become the next generation of drivers,” he said. “This initiative provided students with valuable information and practical experience to help them make safe and responsible decisions when using our roads. I would like to thank all of the partner organisations who contributed to delivering such an informative and engaging event."

The Young Drivers Road Safety Initiative forms part of the Rowallane DEA Forum's ongoing commitment to promoting community safety and encouraging responsible road user behaviour among young people across the district.