Teenagers across the Parkes Shire, who are on the verge of obtaining their learner driver’s licence, are benefitting from vital training thanks to local organisations.
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Neighbourhood Central has successfully secured Commbank Foundation Centenary Grant funding to support youth in the Parkes and Forbes region.
The organisation is partnering with Parkes and Young Rotary Clubs to deliver driver simulator training for Year 10 and 11 students from Parkes, Trundle, Tullamore, Tottenham, Peak Hill and Forbes schools.
Young Rotary was able to purchase the simulator last year.
It is based at the Young PCYC but increasingly being used for driver training throughout the region.
Lessons on the simulator are designed to improve skills of all drivers, young and older.
Through the program students experience two training modules recommended by NSW Police on the simulator: the effects of distraction/texting and under the influence of drugs/alcohol while driving.
One benefit of the driving simulator is that students can be exposed to extremely dangerous driving conditions in a realistic, virtual environment that would be far too hazardous to practice in real life.
Students undertake the training in a safe environment where separate driving tasks are practiced and evaluated.
Last week, Parkes High School students were the first to try their hand at experiencing the dangers whilst driving under the influence or texting.
The students are under the supervision of trained Rotarians and staff from Neighbourhood Central.
The simulator travelled to Trundle Central School on Wednesday and Thursday, where Tullamore and Tottenham students also participated.
Students at Peak Hill Central School will also benefit from the training on Friday, November 23.
In 2019 it is anticipated that students from Forbes will also be involved in the training.
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