More Successful Young Drivers!
- The Webmaster
- 2 days ago
- 2 min read
The Summer Pathfinder Under 17 Driving Course took place from Monday 11th to Friday 15th August at Rufforth Aerodrome. As it is becoming a regular activity for the Youth Services Team and others, we were involved for a second time this year.
Rotarian David McAulay was on duty again as an Instructor, amongst other Advanced Motorists who give up their time to train young people to drive safely. They are led by organiser Ian Goring who was assisted by Course Leader Tony, Lead Instructor Janet and Course Designer (“cone man”) Simon. During the week, various professionals visit – the Fire Brigade, Humberside Road Safety Team, Police Camera Van and other safety support. Vehicles such as a delivery van and a mobility scooter (!!) are available to try and a DHL lorry allows everyone to climb into the cab and share the experience. Speed trials by Instructors demonstrate braking and stopping distances.
Mary Lumley led a team of Rotarians and Partners who manned the refreshments area in morning or afternoon shifts, providing teas and coffees on demand, sorting out food orders for the Instructors and clearing up after everyone. We are all getting to know one another now. As it was hot, we were kept very busy.
Students, accompanied by an “Associate” who is usually a parent or other relative, arrive on the Monday morning looking very apprehensive and it is lovely to see the brimming confidence by Friday afternoon. This time, over two thirds of the students gained their Level 1, the top grade. The course costs just under £300 (subsidised by £100 from the Pathfinder Charity) but it is worth it - one parent said that she had brought her son last year and he had subsequently passed his Driving Test after only 3 lessons, saving her lots of money!!
The next course will be 27th - 31st October. Please put these dates in your diary if you would like to join the refreshments team. Eileen Davis will be in charge of that week’s rota.
Readers can find out more from a BBC in York & North Yorkshire Report published on 26th August; Rotarians will know some of the featured people!
Eileen Davis
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