Young students are being given the chance to experience the world of driving in a controlled and safe environment in a new joint initiative between Robinsons Škoda Norwich and the Hewett Academy.

The Young Driver event, on Thursday, November 12 for students aged 11 to 17, will see professional driving instructors and qualified training and education experts tackle a specially-designed training area in the Academy grounds.

From beginner zones to full road systems with traffic signs, junctions and parking zones, together Robinsons Škoda Norwich and the Hewett Academy will encourage responsible driving among local young people.

Educating the age group before they get behind the wheel at 17, the event aims to cement road safety in a controlled area, while providing a fun-filled day for all. Research shows that an early driving experience cuts road accidents by 40%, and with one in five young people crashing within six months of passing their tests, anything that reduces accidents among this group is a priority.

Ben Nagy, head of sixth form at the Hewett Academy, said: 'At the Hewett Academy we recognise that one skill most young people seek to master is the ability to drive a car. When we were approached by Robinsons Škoda, we realised that this would be an excellent opportunity to introduce driving a car for real to young people within a safe environment.'

Welcoming more than 40 students across the one-day driving experience, the Young Driver event has already caught the attention of many of The Academy's students.

Terry Holman, retailer principal of Robinsons Škoda Norwich, said: 'We're very much looking forward to hosting this event, in collaboration with the Hewett Academy. The students will be driving our Škoda Citigo models, which have always proven a popular car for new and young drivers. A very affordable and easy-to-drive model, we hope everyone enjoys driving it.'

For more information on the event, or to register your space please visit www.robinsonsmotorgroup.co.uk/skoda Robinsons Škoda is in Wingate Way, Norwich, NR2 4UY – telephone 01603 751050.