Driver education and driver training - Implementation Guidelines
Young people in the age group 15 to 25 years are significantly over represented among those killed and injured in road crashes. School communities play a key role in assisting students in Years 9-12 to examine responsibilities of being a road user. Sequential, comprehensive, age appropriate, school-based driver education programs for students in Years 9-12 can support students to develop the knowledge, understandings, skills, attitudes and values which are necessary to fulfil responsibilities as a passenger, pedestrian, cyclist, future driver and driver.
Two approaches used in educating individuals about driving are attitude-based driver education programs and behind-the-wheel driver training. Attitude-based education programs aim to help young people assess their attitudes and behaviour on the road. Behind-the-wheel driver training programs focus on the development of vehicle handling skills.
In NSW government schools driver education is taught as part of the mandatory Personal Development, Health and Physical Education (PDHPE) course in Years 9 and 10 and the mandatory Crossroads: personal development and health education course for Stage 6 (Years 11 and 12).
Behind-the-wheel driver training which focuses on the development of competencies associated with the operation and control of a motor vehicle is not required as a standard component of driver education programs in NSW government schools.
More information about implementation of driver training can be found on the Driver training implementation guidelines page.
In NSW the approach taken to driver education has deliberately focused on attitude-based driver education. The focus of this driver education is on developing the knowledge, understanding and decision-making skills needed to deal with road use issues such as alcohol and drug use, risk-taking, speeding, fatigue, peer influence, occupant restraints and the requirements of the Graduated Licensing Scheme.
Driver education implementation guidelines.
Working with outside agencies
Schools may seek the cooperation of outside agencies in delivery of driver education. Student welfare, risk management, observation of legal requirements and the provision of quality instruction are matters of primary consideration. The sample outside agencies checklist can provide schools with some guidance when making decisions on whether to use an outside agency.
When considering student participation in commercial driving training, principals should refer to the Driver training implementation guidelines page. The conduct of any commercial driving instructor and driving school must comply with the requirements of the Driver Instructors Act, 1992 and Driver Instructors Regulation 2003.
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