Start your engines! Empowering young adults with disability to drive

A group of Northcott customers from Campbelltown are on the road to passing their learner’s license test after completing a learn to drive support program. This program was run by The Disability Trust.

About the program and approach

The program consisted of 10 sessions, each lasting for 2 hours. The program facilitator Rebecca made sure that each session was engaging and interactive. She began each session by asking participants to share one observation they made while being driven to the program that morning. Then, she broke down the NSW Road Rules into manageable sections to explain the rules in detail.

At the end of each session, the group would sit a mock test. Participants engaged in group discussions to determine the correct answers, and Rebecca guided them on difficult questions by asking thought-provoking questions. This approach not only helped them to practice sitting the theory test, but also supported their ability to recall information and evaluate each scenario.

In the final session, participants visited a car park for a practical component. Here, they got hands-on experience adjusting seats and mirrors in a car while identifying various features used for driving.

Working together to achieve goals

One of the main benefits of the program was the positive and collaborative learning environment it created. By studying together, participants could share their thinking process out loud and work together to evaluate the best answers to the theory test.

“The most helpful part of these group sessions has been discussing driving scenarios together. I tried to study the road rules by myself before joining this group by reading a study book over and over. But I struggled to remember all the content. Coming to these lessons and then filling out the worksheets that are given at the end has helped me to remember more of the information,” says Montana, Northcott customer.

The structured group setting also helped everyone to stay on track with reaching their goal of sitting their theory test after the completion of the program.

Next steps for the support group

Rebecca was impressed with the group’s progress. She assessed their knowledge gaps early on and tailored the program accordingly. As a result, the group achieved a perfect score of 45/45 on their recent mock test.

Overall, the customers who have taken part in the program are now feeling more confident to sit their theory tests.

“I have enjoyed learning new things like what road signs mean and how roundabouts work. When I get my license it’s my dream to drive a Volkswagen Golf, because my cousin has one,” says Hayden, Northcott customer.

Well done to the Northcott customers who attended the learn to drive support group. We wish you the best of luck with sitting your learner’s license test.

A special thanks to the Camden Council for the funds that enabled our customers to take part in this program.