From the Director of Students - Years 7-12
By Tim Hoysted
RACQ Docudrama and Safe Driving
At St Patrick’s College, we are passionate about preparing our students for life beyond the classroom. As part of this commitment, our Year 11 students recently participated in the RACQ Docudrama Program, a powerful learning experience focused on road safety and responsible decision-making.
Using a filmed mock crash as a starting point, students were confronted with the real and often confronting consequences of choices made behind the wheel. The program explored the “Fatal Five”—speeding, fatigue, distraction, not wearing a seatbelt, and drink or drug driving—and highlighted how quickly everyday decisions can have life-changing outcomes. The key message was clear: every choice matters.
As many of our Year 11 students progress towards their provisional licences, driving represents an exciting step towards independence. However, it is also a significant responsibility. While most young people are careful drivers, the early years on the road carry greater risk. Limited experience, busy schedules, long travel distances, and the influence of passengers can all impact decision-making.
The College has clear expectations to ensure the safety of all students and our community. Students who wish to drive to and from the College must first receive approval by submitting the required Parent Permission and Student Agreement Form. This must be completed each year before driving is permitted.
It is important to note that student vehicles are to be used only for travel to and from the College. Vehicles are not to be used during school hours unless specific permission has been granted. The only exception is travel to Curlew Park for training, where only approved passengers may be transported. Any other need to use a vehicle during the school day requires written parental consent on that day.
Student safety remains our highest priority. Students are not permitted to travel as passengers in vehicles unless parental consent has been provided to the College. We also ask families to support sensible travel arrangements, as parking around the College is limited. Carpooling or the use of public transport is strongly encouraged, along with respect for local traffic conditions and our surrounding community.
As the number of student drivers increases, so too does the importance of maintaining a safe and orderly environment around the College. Responsible driving, respectful behaviour, and adherence to expectations all contribute to the safety of students, staff, visitors and the local community.
We value the strong partnership between the College and families in supporting young drivers. Parents play a vital role in reinforcing safe habits, ensuring permissions are in place, and encouraging responsible decision-making.
Ultimately, driving is a privilege—not a right. Through programs like the RACQ Docudrama and the clear expectations set by the College, we aim to equip our students with the knowledge, awareness, and responsibility needed to make safe choices on the road.
