College will cover cost of students learning to drive

A college has opened the UK's first virtual reality simulators to train students how to drive before they hit the roads.

The Driver Accreditation Scheme (DAS) at Barnsley College enables them to gain their provisional licence and driving experience by using the new technology.

Around 200 students a year will take part in the driving academy, with financial support from the college.

College principal David Akeroyd said: "The cost of learning to drive is one of many barriers our students face and has, for many, become prohibitive. In a competitive job market and a cost of living crisis, we need to give our students every advantage to gain meaningful, skilled employment."

Currently, one in six jobs in the UK require a valid driving licence, according to the Centre for Social Justice - particularly in sectors such as care and construction.

In Barnsley, one in five households does not own a car, a figure which rises to three in 10 in the Dearne North ward.

The college hopes the academy will reduce the cost of learning to drive and allow students to pass their tests more quickly.

DAS founder Darren Wright said: "The academy gives the students a fairer chance, while making sure safety and responsibility come first. It will literally change lives."

Trying out the simulators this week was 18-year-old Amelia Smailes, a mechanical and electrical engineering student who said driving lessons were expensive.

"I think this a great idea, because it means you can have a go at it. I do feel like cost is a big part, because some people just don't have money for £30-40 per hour."

Although the college has 6,000 students, priority access to the simulators will be allocated based on attendance, engagement and participation in volunteering activities.

The college will cover the cost of a provisional licence and theory test. The virtual sessions will be accompanied by in-person driving lessons before students apply to take their practical tests.

An experienced driving instructor will be appointed to manage the scheme.

Akeroyd added: "The cost of learning to drive falls hardest on students from some of the most deprived wards in the country.

"We've always looked for local answers to national problems, which includes the NEETs crisis. We know that if this works for our first cohort, it has implications for every college in the country - and it is the right thing to do."

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