On Wednesday 9 December Mr Nick Windsor, from Watlington and Henley Fire Stations, visited Shiplake College in order to discuss safe driving techniques and procedures with pupils from Year 12 and 13. Attendance to the ‘Choices and Consequence’ lecture was compulsory, as many pupils learn to drive whilst still studying at Shiplake, and their safety on the road, as well as others around them, is paramount. The number of young people learning to drive is forever increasing; the freedom and independence offered by the ability to drive is very rewarding, although making the subject of road safety engaging presents more of a problem!
Mrs Sarah Krause, Head of PSHE, felt that bringing in an outside figure who had been an active part of rescue teams when road collisions occur, would emphasise the importance of the subject, and help to give a reality to situations that would sink in with the Sixth Formers. Nick, who currently works as the Station Watch Master at the Watlington and Henley Fire Stations, has seen many accidents and the sometimes fatal consequences that can accompany these. Being able to bring this gravitas to the occasion helped to highlight the seriousness of the subject.
Nick passed on top tips for staying safe on the roads – not just in the icy conditions but also with Christmas parties round the corner. Being prepared when heading out onto the road was top of the list; checking the levels of petrol, oil, screen wash and even phone battery were underlined, as well as checking tyre tread. Nick also advised on aspects of driving in harsh winter conditions that had even slipped the minds of some adults; wearing suitable clothing and having a blanket or coat in the car, for example, and telling people at your destination that you’re on the way so they know when to expect you, as well as giving yourself more time when driving in treacherous conditions were all brought up. Although a lot of these ideas seemed like common sense, when the joy of having learnt to drive is overwhelming, it is easy to forget that getting behind the wheel can be dangerous. In the joy of Christmas festivities, a sobering subject is difficult to approach; however, Nick did so carefully and thoroughly, helping the Sixth Formers to see the importance of safety, and what the consequence of their choices could be.
