From left to right back row: Caidin, Jordan, Lucas, Oisin, Teacher's Aide Kylie, Vice Principal Krisitie, Jack (partially obscured), Korna, Jacinta and Tanya. From left to right, front row: Mitchell and Luke.
In applying for grants and holding an annual Changing Gears program in Seymour, Seymour College Vice Principal, Kristie Luckman has not only created a pathway to safe driving for many of her students, she has empowered the community.
Students come from both school and community
The 2024 program not only saw eleven Seymour College students attend but also a local and beloved member of the community.
Students Caiden, Jacinta, Jack, Jordan, Korna, Lucas, Luke, Mitchell, Oisin, and Tanya were joined by single mother Amanda.
In addition, graduating student Tim, who had already achieved his L plates, attended to give himself a valuable refresher on safe driving and the Victorian Road Rules.
The students were a joyous, motivated group. They were supported by teacher’s aide Kylie, who returned to assist with the program for the third year in a row.
“It’s so great to have Kylie with us!” facilitator Nikki enthused, “She is something of an expert in the Changing Gears program and we are incredibly lucky to have her.”
Return to study reassurances
“Am I going to do alright?” Amanda asked as the group prepared to learn, “I haven’t done any school stuff for years, I’ve been so busy with my three kids.”
“You’re in the right place,” Nikki reassured her, “we take things step by step and explain all the road safety concepts in a way that will make sense for everyone.”
Amanda needn’t have worried. She worked with amazing speed and understanding through all of the program material, was an avid participant in group discussions and was the first to pass her final test. Teachers and students alike hugged her.
When you're ready, you're ready
All of the students worked very hard, and Nikki was impressed by some familiar faces.
“I’m so proud of you both, Jacinta and Korna,” Nikki said, “Korna, when I met you two years ago, you were simply not ready to sit your learner permit test but now I can see how well you are doing.”
Sure enough, both girls passed as did all other attendees.
“We need lollies!” the group cried, so after their lunch break, Nikki returned with certificates of achievement and lollies for every student.
“I’m so proud of you all!” Nikki beamed, “You’ve worked tremendously hard.”
Kristie, Kylie and Seymour College; community assets
Nikki gave everyone instructions on next steps for the students and lead the group in clapping for Kylie and Kristie, without whom the program would not have been possible.
A huge shout out goes to Kristie, Kylie and L plater Amanda. Changing Gears is open to everyone who reaches out, and delights in facilitating a safe driving journey for all community members. Thanks Seymour College for making this possible.
From left to right back row: Caidin, Lucas, Oisin, Facilitator Nikki, Jack (partially obscured), Jacinta and Tanya.
From left to right, front row: Luke, Jordan, Mitchell and Korna.
Possibilities open up
Driving opens up so many possibilities for disadvantaged young people. Classes are supportive, students and trainers inspire each other, showing the way for young people to overcome their obstacles to driving and experience success.
Click here to subscribe and find out about delivery of the Changing Gears program.
Call 1800 766 361 to find out more about Changing Gears.
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