The program was a joint community initiative, designed by teachers at Western Riverina Community School in co-operation with representatives from Transport NSW, Service NSW and members of the local community.

The program aimed to educate students about the impacts of road accidents, the risk factors for young drivers and the process through which drivers need to go through to get their full licence and the skills and tips for being a good driver.

Guest speakers included Lidia Cerato from driving school Learning to Drive Griffith, who went through the ins and outs of what a driving lesson entails as well how to reduce stress and anxiety before a driving test.

Members of the Griffith community who have been directly affected by road accidents either through losing a loved one or being in a serious accident themselves shared their personal experiences with students.

Cassandra Campbell-Smith, Brendan Green, Graham Carol and Niki-Lee Johnson presented to students the tremendous personal and family impact of road traumas.

David Martin the CEO and Principal of WRCS said that guest speakers really helped to solidify the need to prioritise safety when driving.

"It was really engaging for the students. They learnt a lot and got important information out of it," Mr Martin said.

The program also aimed to give students access to licensed community volunteers willing to supervise them to clock up the mandatory learner hours towards their provisional drivers license.

Many students at the WRCS would not normally have access to driver instruction due to their personal circumstances.

The school is calling on volunteers from the community who would like to share their time providing driver mentoring to students.

The goal is for supervised driving to begin starting from in Term 4.

If community members would be able to offer an hour of their time during school hours during Term 4 2020 and Term 1 2021, they are encouraged to get in touch with Lauren at l.forner@wrcs.nsw.edu.au.

Professional learning will be provided free of charge to equip volunteers with the skills to be a safe and effective supervisor.

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