Our Programme

• My teenager has already attended a Driving Course and a Defensive Driving Course. Why should he/she attend RYDA as well?

  RYDA does not teach students how to drive. It teaches students how to be safe, responsible and make good decisions. It teaches how to make the right decisions when getting to a vehicle, either as a driver or passenger. These lessons are not generally taught elsewhere.

• Do Students get to go in cars?

  During the Safe Braking session students may get in a vehicle in order to experience, at first hand, the effects of braking suddenly but safely. The vehicle, which may reach the speed of 60km, is driven by a certified AA Driving Instructor and the students are properly belted in. It is not compulsory to go in the vehicle and we recommend that any students with back or neck injuries should not do so. Parents are asked indicate on the school permission form if they are happy that their student goes in the vehicle.

• What do Students need to bring?

  Morning, tea, lunch, drinks to last the day. Generally there is no canteen available at RYDA venues, but if that changes then the school will let parents and students know in advance. Also a jacket or suitable clothing to wear outside is recommended.

• What is the role of teachers at the RYDA programmes?

  Teachers are asked to look after any disciplinary issues during the day.

• Who presents the programme?

  Presenters from various agencies including NZ Police, the Brain Injury Association, Care NZ and the Automobile Association.

• Why have the Programme away from School?

  Experience has shown that the delivery of the RYDA programme off site works best for student retention if it is held away from the distractions of School. There are Health and Safety Standards to consider in relation to the Safe Braking demonstration. It also makes the day “Special.”

• What do students have to pay to attend?

  To help lower the cost of the day parents/schools are asked to pay $10 - $15 per student. This may vary from school to school depending on the availability of alternative funding.

• Our school/student is unable to afford that amount. Can you help us to get funding in order to attend?

  No student should miss out for financial reasons. RYDA works with the schools and other agencies, for example, Rotary, Road Safety Groups etc to get some funding. RYDA can also offer some ideas on raising funds, as used by other schools. Contact us for more information.

• Our school/Home school student have booked to go on a RYDA programme. What happens now?

  We will post your school some fliers to send to the homes of students. We will also email a letter template and additional information for parents, if required. Samples, and a typical programme of the day are included in the next few pages. Home School parents should contact RYDA CEO on 021 545 030.

General

• How long has RYDA been operating?

  Established in the metropolitan area of Sydney in 2000, the Programme has grown rapidly as a result of strong demand from schools. launced in NZ in 2007 such is the demand it is expected that by 2010, students participating in the Programme in that year alone will exceed 8000.

• Where is RYDA offered?

  Initially offered on Auckland in early 2007, the programme is now available in the Far North, Whangarei, Auckland, Manakau, Papakura, Franklin, Rotorua, Christchurch and Nelson.
  In 2011 RYDA will also be delivered in Hamilton, Tauranga, Wellington, Marlborough and Invercargill.