It can be hard to imagine your little one growing up, but it won’t be long until they’re asking to borrow your car keys. Sue Waterfield from Young Driver, the UK’s largest driving school for 10–17-year-olds, explains how early driving tuition can set the foundations for a safer, more confident next generation.
Fastening the seatbelt on their future
“Statistics show that learning to drive before you’re 17 can reduce the chances of an accident as a newly qualified driver by up to 50pc,” says Sue.
Young Driver offers driving lessons for 10-17-year-olds on private property with fully qualified driving instructors in dual controlled Vauxhall Corsas. A realistic road system is set up, allowing the drivers to get to grips with everything from changing gears and steering to reversing and braking.
The experience not only helps children pass their test and stay safe behind the wheel, but also teaches them how to navigate the road as a pedestrian and cyclist.
“Under 17s who take driving lessons have better awareness of road safety. This is especially important when living in such a rural location as the Cotswolds where accident rates are higher than in urban locations,” Sue says.
Putting their confidence into fifth gear
To a lot of children, driving a car is something only ‘grown-ups’ can do. So, it’s no surprise that youngsters often show an increase in self-esteem after discovering they can drive.
“You’d be surprised how much your child picks up just from being in the car with you – they learn quicker than they think, boosting their self-esteem. A lot of our young drivers’ parents see a positive change in their child’s confidence in day-to-day life after Young Driver lessons,” explains Sue.
Miles of fun
Aside from the practical benefits, children simply have fun learning how to drive.
“Although young drivers gain the experience to be safer on the road in the future, it’s also important that they have fun. Young Driver focuses on introducing young people to driving in a safe, yet equally exciting environment,” Sue explains.
Young Driver at Moreton-in-Marsh
Young Driver has delivered 750,000 lessons to under 17s at over 70 venues across the UK.
The venue in Moreton-in-Marsh is a wonderful learning space for prospective young drivers in the area. It also offers the addition of ‘advanced driving days’ - experience days in which under 17s can learn motorway driving and other driving skills.
Why not buy a voucher as a unique gift for a young family member? Cotswold Life readers can enjoy 10% off lessons and vouchers. Use code ‘LIFE10’ when you checkout. Expires March 30 2020 and can’t be used in conjunction with other offers.
More information can be found on www.youngdriver.com. Contact them on 0333 5779010 or via info@youngdriver.com. Find them at The Fire Service College, London Road, Moreton-in-Marsh, Gloucestershire GL56 0RH.
