New Driver NI programme to deliver road safety education to 32,000 young people
More than 32,000 young people across Northern Ireland are set to receive road safety education through the New Driver NI programme during the 2026/27 academic year.
Davy Jackson, Chair of Road Safe NI Charity, Paula Mahoney, Marketing Director at CRASH Services, and Stevie Dickson, Presenter
The programme, launched on Tuesday 27 October, will involve more than 100 post-primary schools and aims to help students make safer decisions as drivers and passengers.
Its return comes alongside Northern Ireland’s new graduated driver licensing arrangements.
New Driver NI focuses on risks facing young motorists
The programme covers issues including speeding, driver distraction, drink and drug driving, seatbelt use and peer pressure.
It aims to develop road safety awareness beyond the practical skills required to pass a driving test.
Organisers say young people need to understand both their responsibilities behind the wheel and the influence passengers can have on driving behaviour.
The programme also introduces students to the graduated licensing system and its approach to gaining driving experience.
More than 100 schools expected to participate
More than 100 post-primary schools are expected to engage with the programme during the academic year.
CRASH Services has renewed its sponsorship, marking 14 years of support.
The company says its experience helping motorists after collisions reinforces the importance of prevention and road safety education.
The programme aims to encourage safer attitudes before young people begin driving independently.
Organisers hope the initiative will help students recognise risks and make responsible decisions throughout their driving lives.
Other news: 34 more Northern Ireland schools to receive part-time 20mph speed limits
External link: Official Department for Infrastructure road safety information at nidirect