We're all in this together at SGSS

From right to left SGSS Program Coordinator Bec Davies with Natasha and Julia at VicRoads Leongatha.

South Gippsland Specialist School (SGSS) students Anthony, Brock, Casey, Corey, Faith, Julia, Natasha and Tyler proved to be very motivated Changing Gears participants.

They all wanted to learn about road safety and the Victorian road code.

Those under sixteen can participate and have fun

Several of the students were not yet sixteen but participated with enthusiasm in the program, answering questions and discussing sharing the road, signs, rules and developing a great driving attitude.

“We love the students having a go, even if they won’t yet be sitting their learner permit test this year,” Program Coordinator Bec Davies commented, “that way, they build up confidence, so they'll do well when they do sit their test.”

VicRoads staff are tops

On test day, Leongatha VicRoads staff were wonderful with the group of four students. New Manager Ashley Lamers oversaw the process with interest.

Corey sat his test first achieving a brilliant score. Next came Brock, Julia and Natasha. Each of the students struggled with nerves, which affected their test scores.

Persistence is key

“That’s not a problem,” facilitator Nikki told them. “In this circumstance, persistence is the key.”

In the weeks following their big day, each of the students present at VicRoads, and Tyler (who was unable to attend on the test day), achieved their learner permit with Nikki’s help and support.

When Julia and her mother celebrated Julia’s victory, Nikki told them, “I’m so proud of you, and all your classmates. I hope you learned that if at first you encounter problems, just keep persisting. With persistence, you can achieve your goals."

We're all in this together

Changing Gears would like to thank Bec and the SGSS staff, Ashley and the Leongatha VicRoads team and Julia’s mum, Sheryl.

We’re all in this together and without the help of VicRoads, parents and teaching staff, our program would not achieve the great things it does.

From right to left Sheryl Spencer with her daughter and proud new learner permit holder, Julia.

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.

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Call 1800 766 361 to find out more about Changing Gears.

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